How to keep a bike looking new

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#31

08-22-2011 | 03:52 PM

DLW_FLHTC

Road Warrior

Joined: Dec 2004

Posts: 1,502

Likes: 0

From: North East Illinois

I use s100 products and try to wax a couple of times a year, but I recommend that you change perspective and learn to love a bike covered with bugs and road grim.

Up north here plenty of time to clean in the winter.

#32

08-22-2011 | 03:54 PM

DLW_FLHTC

Road Warrior

Joined: Dec 2004

Posts: 1,502

Likes: 0

From: North East Illinois

Quote:

Originally Posted by wahlumsurfer

I know the feeling. First couple months I was always wiping the bike down after a ride and once a week giving it a bath. Always had the sudden heart jump at what looked like a small scratch or blemish. Finally, reality set in and I realized that the more I ride, the more risk.

I finally came to realize that any small cosmetic damage (which does suck) won't make it any less fun to ride!

And some of the small cosmetic damage is a good story!

#33

08-22-2011 | 07:58 PM

Stickman81

Road Captain

Joined: Apr 2008

Posts: 744

Likes: 2

From: South of The ATL.

Lots of great information here already.

Detailing or general care boils down to an opinion. You have to read, research, try products and get input. Everyone likes certain products for certain reasons.

Check out this website for tons of information.
http://www.autopiaforums.com/

I too love Zaino products for a final finish on all everything I detail. (which is fewer and further between now). The products are top-notch and the owner, Sal is a great guy to do business with. Even using the little bit of product I was, he still took time out to help me with questions.
http://www.zainostore.com/

Collinite Insulator Wax is a great, inexpensive sealant that has good durability as a final protectant.
http://www.collinite.com/

Check out the detailing section of this form to see what is working for other folks.
https://www.hdforums.com/forum/detailing-27/

Check out a quick paint correction I did on my bike back in April.
https://www.hdforums.com/forum/detai...tion-pics.html

Here is a comparison shot -
Left side is pre-polish.
Right side is after a one-step with Megs 205 and an orange pad.

Best of luck and post up some pictures!

Quote:

Originally Posted by WS6 Formula

Zaino, can't beat a finish that shines as good as glass: http://www.zainostore.com/

Last edited by Stickman81; 08-22-2011 at 08:04 PM.

#34

08-22-2011 | 08:11 PM

k&j eglide

Tourer

Joined: Apr 2009

Posts: 444

Likes: 1

All good advice. Additionally, go to a Goodwill or similar and get a couple of old sheets. Covering after the bike cools between rides goes a long way towards keeping dust and such off in the first place. You don't have to clean what isn't there.

#35

08-23-2011 | 10:11 PM

Saphira

Tourer

Joined: Aug 2011

Posts: 439

Likes: 1

From: Colorado

Keep it in the living room next to the TV.

#36

08-23-2011 | 10:20 PM

Ron750

Seasoned HDF Member

Joined: Jan 2011

Posts: 28,839

Likes: 16,549

From: Wisconsin, USA

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ed Vanharley

Let this Guy clean it for ya!

#37

08-23-2011 | 10:32 PM

Buckinfitch

Supporter

Joined: Jul 2009

Posts: 13,870

Likes: 4,082

From: Taylortucky, MI

Quote:

Originally Posted by Druid

Ok, so I got my new Davidson and it still looks like showroom condition. What do I need to do to keep it looking that way?

Dip it in cider...

#38

08-23-2011 | 10:48 PM

knewt5

Road Master

Joined: Mar 2010

Posts: 805

Likes: 2

From: The Live Free or Die State

I wash it with a car wash detergent with wax in it then dry with The Absorber ( http://www.amazon.com/Absorber-Synth.../dp/B0000AY69V ). Before I dry with the Absorber I mist the wet bike, chrome and all, with Eagle 1 Wax As You Dry. The Absorber leaves a spotless finish. I follow that up with a coat of wax. It takes no time and looks like a million bucks.