What You'll Learn
Aussie Conditions
Look, I’ve seen guys spend four hours on a Harley and still leave road grime in the cooling fins. This checklist is about working smart, especially with the Aussie sun beating down on you this March. Whether you're chasing red dust from a weekend in the Mallee or salt spray from a coastal run, this is how you keep your pride and joy mint. I've stripped this back to the essentials so you can follow it while you're out in the shed with a cold one.
The Essential Gear
What You'll Need
Before You Pick Up The Hose
What You'll Need
While you're here...
Step-By-Step Process
Degrease the Dirty Bits
Apply degreaser to the chain, swingarm, and lower engine. Let it sit for 3-5 minutes, but don't let it dry. Use a brush to break up the grease.
The Pre-Rinse
Give the whole bike a gentle spray. Avoid blasting high-pressure water directly into wheel bearings, the radiator, or the dash. You're just knocking off loose dust.
Contact Wash
Wash from the top down using the two-bucket method. Use light pressure on fairings. If you've got bug guts stuck, let the suds dwell for a minute.
Detail the Engine and Wheels
Use your smaller brushes to get into the cylinder fins and wheel spokes. A customer once brought in a dirty Gixxer that took an hour just for the wheels.
Final Rinse
Rinse thoroughly. Make sure you get all the soap out from under the tank and seat. Leftover soap can cause corrosion over time.
The Big Dry
Use the leaf blower to blast water out of every crevice. This prevents water spots and stops bolts from rusting. Wipe remaining drips with a clean microfibre.
Protect and Shine
Apply your sealant or ceramic spray to painted surfaces. I'm a big fan of Gtechniq for bikes, it handles the heat better than a cheap wax.
Final Inspection Checklist
What You'll Need
Watch Out
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