its my understanding that the lower fork tubes have some kind of laminate coating on them. is that accurate? ive got the single disc front end (90 sporty) and the brake side has a lot of brake dust that isnt just coming off with a good wipedown. whats the best way to clean up the tube without removing that laminate coating? im pickin up a polishing kit from JP cycles for stainless and aluminum, should i try using that real lightly? any other ideas?

 

The "laminate" is more closely related to automotive type clear coat. The best preventative is keeping the fork tubes (rest of bike too) clean and well waxed. To remove the accumulated dust for now. Always start with the least method aggressive first. I have used Meguiar's "Scratch-X" with a terry cloth applicator pad, and lots of elbow grease. You will have to apply a lot of rubbing pressure. As in really really press down with your thumb. However, it should remove the embedded dust w/o removing all of the coating. Afterwards, on those rainy days, sit around and wax your bike.
The use of a good quality "Instant Detailer" spray after a ride will go a long way to preventing build up of brake dust and road grime. Im partial to Meguiar's products, but there are many other good finish maintence products out there on the market.

Respectfully,
BINGO53

PS: Careful with the metal polishing kit. It will likely remove the coating and then you will be stuck with constant polishing and maintence to keep the metal from dulling.

 

thanks for all the help! i keep the bike pretty clean, but the dust had already been embedded in the fork tube when i got the bike. so im cleanin up someone elses mess

 

Hi !
I would still try the scratch-X as mentioned above before doing anything as drastic as using a metal polish. I have removed some serious embedded debris with this product. But be forwarned, it will take some serious elbow grease to accomplish, but you might still be able to salvage the clear coating.
I have friends who have intentionally removed the clear coat from the entie assembly, in order to polish/shine the bare aluminum to an almost chrome shine. Its a great look, but VERY high maintence.

Respectfully,
BINGO 53

 

just put these on 'em

No really, are these any good?
You can find them cheaper on ebay...

 

I dont know.. I have the same issue.. I thought about getting the covers or getting some chrome forks but man those things are pricey..

 

those would look nice, but the bike is goin up for sale this spring. expense is gonna be kept to a minimum this winter, im just cleanin it up and doin basic maintenance.

 

I've done that to a few bikes and once you get the surface pits smoothed out the bare metal takes just a little more work than a painted surface. I just wax mine between polishes and that protects them and keeps em shiney!