What You'll Learn
Aussie Conditions
Look, I've spent 15 years cleaning everything from local postie bikes to high-end Ducatis, and the secret is all in the prep. Especially with our Aussie sun beating down in March, you've gotta be smart about heat and chemicals. This checklist is designed to get the road grime off quickly so you can spend more time riding and less time scrubbing.
The Essential Kit
What You'll Need
While you're here...
Pre-Start Checks
What You'll Need
The Detailing Process
Degrease and Chain
Clean the chain first. Use a dedicated brush and cleaner. If you do this last, you'll just flick grease all over your clean wheels.
The Wheels
Hit the rims with your wheel cleaner and brushes. I once spent three hours on a bike because I left the wheels until the end, never again.
Pre-Rinse
Gently hose off the loose dust and those smashed March locusts. Don't use a pressure washer too close to the bearings or radiator fins.
Contact Wash
Use the two-bucket method. Start at the top of the tank and work down. Keep the mitt lubricated with plenty of suds.
Final Rinse and Dry
Rinse thoroughly. Use a blower to get water out of the engine fins and switches. A leaf blower works wonders if you don't have a dedicated car dryer.
Protect
Apply your sealant to the paint and plastics. Avoid getting any on the tyres or brake rotors, you'll end up in the shrubbery at the first corner.
Final Inspection Checklist
What You'll Need
Watch Out
Expert Tip
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