If you own a motorcycle, you want to keep it in good condition for as long as possible. That includes the way it runs as well as the way it looks. While routine maintenance can help keep your bike running at optimal performance levels, keeping it looking like new may not be quite so simple. After all, every time you ride, you subject it to dirt, road grime, and other hazards. They can take a toll on the bike’s appearance, but there are a few effective ways to minimize their impact.
Use Graphics
One way to maintain a like-new appearance is by using graphics on your Yamaha. Graphics can transform your motorcycle from a cookie-cutter model to a one-of-a-kind work of art. They can also hide imperfections like dings and scratches and help prevent the bike from getting new scuffs. If the graphics get damaged, all you have to do is remove them and apply new ones. They’ll definitely help keep your bike looking like new for years to come, and there’s no end to the combinations of images and colors you can use to continually refresh its appearance.
Wash Regularly
Another way to keep your bike looking new is to wash it regularly. Of course, there’s a right and wrong way to do that. For one, never scrub a dry motorcycle. If you do, you’ll basically be scrubbing dirt and road grime into the paint instead of actually removing it. That’ll leave behind scuffs and scratches that detract from your bike’s appearance rather than improving it.
When washing a motorcycle, be sure to rinse it thoroughly before applying soap and scrubbing. That removes potentially abrasive grit so it won’t damage your bike’s paint, metal, and plastic while it’s getting a bath. From there, use a soft cloth and soapy water. Try to avoid using petroleum-based cleaners, like dish soap, to wash your bike’s plastic or painted body parts. Those cleaners can damage the protective clear coat and leave the bike more vulnerable to fading, peeling, and other damage. Instead, use specially designed automotive cleaners.
Leave the engine, tires, and wheels until the end of the cleaning as well. They’re generally dirtier and greasier than other parts of the bike. If you wash them first or somewhere in the middle of the process, you could end up simply transferring dirt and grease from one area of the bike to the other. When it comes time to clean the engine and wheels, you may need to ramp up your cleaning products. At that point, harsher cleaners can be used to dissolve grease and grime; just try to avoid getting them on other parts of the motorcycle. Throughout the cleaning process, consider working with small areas. Wash a small area, rinse it, and move on to the next.
Extra Details
You can wax the bike’s body parts from time to time as well to protect it from the elements and help keep excess dirt at bay. If the bike has plastics, avoid using waxes that contain abrasive polishing agents because they can scratch the material. Use leather cleaners and conditioners on the seat and saddle bags. Keep the tires changed as well. That’ll keep you safer while also keeping the bike looking new. If the wheels end up with a bit of road rash or other damage, consider changing them too. Worn tires and scratches on the wheels can detract from the appearance of the entire motorcycle.
Keeping Your Bike Looking Beautiful
Keeping your motorcycle looking like new takes a certain amount of time and effort. Using graphics to cover damage and protect against new scratches is one way to boost a bike’s appearance. Washing it regularly and properly is also an effective measure. Those extra details mentioned here can take your efforts to keep your bike looking beautiful a step further.