This may seem like an easy question but it seems there could be some downside if done wrong. Specifically, how do you keep the bike reasonably clean when on an extended road trip? Assuming no access to a hose or the normal methods of cleaning, what is the plan? Seems to me the most realistic would be, if stopping for the evening or a meal at the end of the riding day, if there is a nearby do-it-yourself-car-wash then the rider could go there, give the bike time to cool down, assuming there was only a few minutes to get over there, and on a 70's type evening, wait some 15 minutes then start the cleaning process with lots of soapy water and eventually rinse with lots of cool water. Then, immediately ride the bike.
Now, maybe this will cause lots of issues and that is what I'm asking because the above seems like the way I'd clean the bike on a long trip. Has anyone done this and is there a downside? Any other ideas about keeping the bike reasonably clean while on the road?

 

Self service auto wash....That's what a few of us did after 6 miles of dirt road...I had 1000 miles and several days to go and wanted to get the dust off.

I also was introduced to how wonderful it is to carry a few microfiber towels to dry with...beats a wet seat and lots of spots

Mostly I leave it dirty and just clean the windshield unless it is really bed.

 

I don't.

 

When staying at a motel, I ask at the front desk for some old towels or rags and use these and hot water from the room to wash and dry the bike. Always works for me and I usually do it every night. It also is a good way to be checking the bike for anything loose.

 

A good rainstorm'l wash them bugs away...
....... Them hotel towels in the morning'l getcha runnin

 

I don't worry about a clean motorcycle when traveling. All I do is start each day with a clean windshield and that's good enough.

 

+1
when on a road trip "RIDE"
polish it up when you get home.
and if you must go to the car wash, say good bye to your wheel bearings. them puppies hate pressure washers

 

I just keep the windshield and headlight/ spotlights clean and clear unless for some reason like riding through a rain with no more forecast for the rest of the trip or a dirty dusty road then I migh spray it clear as long as there is a spot free rinse which is all I will use if it is just dust. It is especially nice if you are visiting biker family or friends who have proper bike cleaning stuff.

 

Get to where you're going and when your ready to take the trip home - Spray it off - Clean the windshield

 

+1.... I carry some windex and use the small towels.