It might seem like keeping your Honda clean is easy. But there are some things you should know.
Cleaning tips
To protect the Honda’s surface finishes, clean it regularly. Also, inspect for oil, brake fluid, or wear.
- You should avoid cleaning products that aren’t made for motorcycles or cars. These products may contain harsh detergents and chemical solvents, which could cause damage to your bike’s paint, metal, or plastic.
- Take a hot tea if the machine is still warm after use. Wait until the engine cools down.
- High-pressure water sprays, such as those found at coin-operated car washes, should not be used. Your motorcycle can also be damaged by high-pressure water or air.
Washing
- To remove dirt and grime, rinse your bike with cool water.
- Use cool water to clean it. Do not spray water on electrical components or muffler outlets. Avoid squirting small children within the immediate area.
- Use a sponge or cloth dampened in mild detergent and water to clean the plastic parts. Gently rub the affected area with a cloth or sponge, then rinse it with warm water. Keep brake fluid and chemical solvents off the surfaces. They can damage plastic and paint. After washing your hands, the inside of the headlight lens might become cloudy. You’ll notice the moisture condensation in the headlight lens slowly disappearing when you switch it to a high beam. Keep the headlight on, but run the engine.
- Rinse the motorcycle with lots of clean water after cleaning. This is important because strong detergent residue can cause alloy parts’ corrosion.
- Dry the bike and start the engine.
- Before you ride, make sure to test the brakes. You might have to pump them multiple times to restore normal braking performance.
- After drying your motorcycle, grease the drive chain. The braking response might be less immediate after washing. To reduce the chance of an accident, it is a good idea to allow yourself to stop at a longer distance.
Final touches
You can use a spray cleaner/polish, quality liquid wax or paste wax to finish your job. Use wax or polish that is specifically made for automobiles or motorcycles. Make sure to read all instructions.
Road salt removal
Salt is bad for your health. Salt in winter gritting can cause corrosion to your Honda. Make sure to:
- Use only cool water to clean. Warm water can worsen the effects of salt.
- Apply wax or protective sprays to the metal surfaces of the motorcycle after drying it.
Maintenance of painted aluminum wheels
Your bike’s aluminum parts may rust when they come in contact with dirt, road salt, and mud. After riding in any of these materials, clean the wheels. Use a mild detergent and a wet sponge. Avoid using steel wool or stiff brushes.
After washing your bike, rinse it well with water and dry it using a towel. If you find any damaged areas, apply touch-up paint.
Exhaust pipe maintenance
Although the exhaust pipe is steel, oil and mud can stain it. A liquid abrasive can be used to remove heat stains.
Looking after your machine
Be careful not to splash water onto the bearings. This can cause humidity which can lead to corrosion. During winter, it’s a good idea to spray non-painted aluminum parts like the engine and transmission housing with a transparent protective coating. Any existing corrosion marks can be removed with soaped steel wool. You can clean and protect any bare metal parts with chromium polish.
Use a neutral soap solution to clean the dashboard, seat, indicators, rear lights, windscreen, and dashboard. Use no cleaners or solvents.
Soak any filthy or dead insects in soap solution and then rinse with water. Protect your machine with waxes and lubricants if riding in adverse conditions. Ask your dealer which ones are the best.
Routine servicing of your bike should be planned well in advance. This will allow you to schedule your service at a convenient time for you and your Honda dealer.