The first step for proper maintenance of your motocross bike is cleaning and washing. Not only does proper washing keep your bike looking good but also helps in avoiding malfunctions, especially with performance issues caused by accumulated dirt and dust. To do it properly, you need the right tools and steps. We have some tips here for you to keep your bike presentable and longer-lasting.
The essentials
For the best cleaning method, you need the right essentials. This would include a pressure washer, wash bucket, bike stand, soap mixture or bike cleaning solution, soft brush, spray bottle, air box cover, and rubber plugs. For after washing, you need compressed air, lubricating solutions or other penetrating lube, wire brush, clean towels, microfiber towels, and spray polish.
The cleaning process
The best way to start when cleaning is to take a pail of hot water, a sponge and a brush, and gently scrub away the caked mud and dust on the surfaces of your bike. Start with the fenders, the engine area, and then the tires. Lay your bike on its side and put the handlebar on a stand. By doing this, you will be able to get to those hard-to-reach areas.
Some may wash their bikes with a hose and a nozzle, but there is no doubt that a pressure washer is more effective for dirt bikes. Lightly spray with water, enough to make the dirt soft and come loose. Leave for about a minute before power washing. Keep in mind that you should not point the washer at rubber seals and bearings.
Removing the seat is your choice, but remember that the foam in the material can break down easily when too much water is absorbed. To avoid damage, clean the surface of the seat with a brush.
For the intake air boot, make sure to put some rag or an air box cover. You should also put a rubber plug into your exhaust pipe to make sure that water will not get in and cause rust or damage.
Lay your bike on its other side and work your way through the area as well. Once done, put it upright on the bike stand and start using your soap spray or bike wash solution and leave for a few minutes before gently scrubbing with a brush.
After washing
After accomplishing the washing of your bike, it is now time to put the necessary chemicals for maintenance. Spray your flywheel with chlorine-free brake cleaner after removing the magneto cover. Do the same for the coils, too. Use brake cleaner as well when spraying your rotors to keep the dirt and water off.
For the steel areas, use lubricating oil for a spray to remove the remaining water. Silicon spray is best for spraying on your tires to protect against cracking and dryness as well as giving your tires a fresh look by covering up scratches.
Begin drying off the wire with a towel. For hard-to-reach areas, use compressed air. For the lower fork legs, use a microfiber cloth and make sure no water spots remain. Use compressed air as well for the chain, along with penetrating lubricant, before putting on the chain lube.
When it comes to cleaning your bike, you can’t afford any misstep, as this is a very important step for maintenance. Proper cleaning of your motocross bike will certainly go a long way for performance and endurance.