Dirt bikes are built to handle tough terrain, from muddy trails to dusty desert tracks. But all that dirt and grime can take a toll on your bike’s performance if it’s not properly cleaned and maintained.
Regular washing not only keeps your dirt bike looking great, but it also helps prevent rust, corrosion, and other damage that can shorten its lifespan.
In this article, BSXInsight will walk you through how to wash a dirt bike safely and effectively, so you can keep your bike in top shape for your next off-road adventure.
What Do You Need to Prepare Before Washing a Dirt Bike?
Washing a dirt bike is an essential part of its maintenance routine. It not only keeps your bike looking great but also helps to ensure that it functions properly.
However, before you start washing your dirt bike, there are a few things you need to prepare to make the process more efficient and effective.
Here are some of the things you need to prepare before washing your dirt bike:
Materials
The first thing you’ll need to prepare before washing your dirt bike is the necessary materials.
You’ll need a bucket, a hose with a high-pressure nozzle, a soft-bristled brush, a sponge or microfiber cloth, a bike cleaner, a degreaser, and a chain cleaner. You can purchase these items at your local auto parts store or online.
Location
Next, you’ll need to choose an appropriate location to wash a bike. Ideally, you want to wash your bike in an area that’s flat, well-drained, and away from any sensitive environments such as rivers, lakes, or other water sources.
Avoid washing your bike on grass or dirt, as this can cause runoff that can harm the environment.
Safety Gear
Before you begin washing your dirt bike, it’s important to wear the proper safety gear. This includes gloves, eye protection, and closed-toe shoes to protect your hands, eyes, and feet.
Additionally, you may want to wear old clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty, as the washing process can be messy.
Pre-Washing
Before you start washing your dirt bike, it’s essential to give it a pre-wash. This will help to remove any loose dirt or debris from the bike, making it easier to clean during the washing process.
Use the high-pressure nozzle to rinse the bike with water, being careful not to damage any sensitive parts of the bike.
Planning
Finally, you should have a plan in place for how you will wash a dirt bike. This includes deciding on the order in which you will wash each part of the bike and which cleaning products you will use.
It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for each cleaning product to ensure that you don’t damage your bike.
How To Wash A Dirt Bike?
Now that you’ve prepared everything you need to wash a dirt bike, it’s time to get started! In this section, we’ll walk you through the steps you need to take to wash your dirt bike thoroughly.
Remove and Cover the Sensitive Parts of Your Dirt Bike
Before you start washing your dirt bike, it’s crucial to remove any sensitive parts that could be damaged by water or cleaning products.
These include the air filter, spark plug, and any electrical components. Cover any exposed areas with plastic wrap or a plastic bag to prevent them from getting wet.
Hose it Off
Using the high-pressure nozzle on your hose, rinse off any loose dirt or debris from your dirt bike. Be careful not to use too much pressure, as this can damage the bike’s paint or decals. Start at the top of the bike and work your way down, making sure to rinse off all areas thoroughly.
Scrub it Down
Once you’ve rinsed off your dirt bike, it’s time to start scrubbing it down. Use a soft-bristled brush to scrub the bike’s frame, wheels, and other non-sensitive areas.
Be sure to get into all the nooks and crannies, including under the seat and around the engine.
Sponge it Up
For the more sensitive areas of your dirt bike, such as the seat and plastic bodywork, use a sponge or microfiber cloth.
Wet the sponge or cloth with water and bike wash, and gently wipe down the areas you need to clean. Don’t use too much pressure, as this can cause scratches or damage to the plastic.
Use Some Bike Wash
To get your dirt bike extra clean, use a specialized bike wash product. Apply the bike wash to the areas you want to clean, and let it sit for a few minutes to loosen up any dirt or grime.
Then, rinse it off with your high-pressure nozzle.
Dry Off
After you’ve finished washing your dirt bike, use a chamois or microfiber towel to dry off all the areas you cleaned. This will prevent water spots and help to avoid any rust or corrosion.
Take Care of that Chain
Cleaning and lubricating your dirt bike’s chain is an essential part of the washing process. Use a chain cleaner to remove any dirt or grime from the chain, and then apply chain lubricant to keep it running smoothly.
Get scuff-free
If your dirt bike has any scuffs or scratches, you can use a specialized cleaner to remove them. Apply the cleaner to a soft cloth, and then rub it into the scuff or scratch until it disappears.
Put It Back Together
Once you’ve finished washing and drying your dirt bike, it’s time to put everything back together. Reinstall any sensitive parts you removed earlier, and make sure everything is tight and secure. Your dirt bike is now ready to ride!
Key Areas To Clean Like A Professional
When it comes to cleaning a dirt bike, it’s important to pay attention to the key areas that can often get overlooked.
By taking the time to clean these areas, you can help prolong the life of your bike and ensure it’s running at its best. Here are some key areas to clean like a professional:
- Forks adjusters: One of the most important areas to clean on your dirt bike is the fork adjusters. These small screws are located at the top of each fork tube and can easily get clogged with dirt and debris. To clean them, use a small screwdriver to remove any dirt or debris and ensure they’re functioning properly.
- Footpegs, shift lever: Another area that often gets overlooked is the footpegs and shift lever. To clean these areas, move the pegs and lever tip to clean all the dirt out of the springs. This will help ensure they’re functioning properly and make shifting and braking easier.
- Chain guide: The chain guide is another area that’s often neglected during cleaning. Built-up dirt will wear out your chain faster and cause it to break down. Use a brush to remove any dirt or debris from the chain guide and ensure it’s functioning properly.
- Radiator fins: Your bike will run cooler if the radiator fins aren’t clogged with dirt and debris. While cleaning your bike, take the time to clean the radiator fins using a soft brush. Be careful, as strong power washers can actually bend the fins, so it’s best to use a gentle touch.
- Under the tank: One area that many riders forget to clean is under the tank. You will thank us for the next time you remove your spark plug or check your valves. Use a rag to wipe down any dirt or debris under the tank and ensure everything is functioning properly.
- Shock bumper: Finally, it’s important to clean the shock bumper on your dirt bike. Built-up dirt will break down the bumper and scratch the shock shaft. To clean it, use a soft brush and gently scrub the area to remove any dirt or debris.
By paying attention to these key areas, you can ensure your dirt bike is running at its best and avoid costly repairs down the road.
Take the time to clean your bike thoroughly, and you’ll be rewarded with a smooth and reliable ride.
FAQs
Can I use a pressure washer to wash my dirt bike?
Yes, you can use a pressure washer to wash your dirt bike, but you need to be careful not to use too much pressure or aim the spray directly at sensitive areas like the bearings or electrical components.
It’s best to use a lower-pressure setting or a pressure washer specifically designed for washing dirt bikes.
Should I use warm or cold water to wash my dirt bike?
It’s best to use cold water to wash a bike, as hot water can cause damage to the bike’s finishes and plastics. If you need to use warm water to help loosen dirt and grime, be sure to avoid using water that’s too hot.
What cleaning products should I use to wash my dirt bike?
There are many different cleaning products available for washing dirt bikes, but it’s important to choose products that are specifically designed for this purpose.
Look for products that are biodegradable, non-corrosive, and safe for use on plastic and metal surfaces.
Do I need to remove the chain to wash my dirt bike?
You don’t need to remove the chain to wash your dirt bike, but it’s important to take extra care when cleaning it.
Use a chain cleaning tool and a degreaser specifically designed for motorcycle chains to remove any built-up dirt and grime. Be sure to rinse the chain thoroughly and apply chain lube after washing.
How often should I wash my dirt bike?
The frequency with which you wash a bike will depend on how often you ride and the conditions in which you ride.
Generally, it’s a good idea to wash a bike after every ride to remove any dirt and grime that can affect its performance and longevity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, washing your dirt bike is an important part of routine maintenance that can help extend the life of your machine and keep it performing at its best.
By following the steps outlined in this article, you can safely and effectively wash a bike without causing any damage to its sensitive components.
Remember to use only approved cleaning products, protect the air filter, and dry your bike thoroughly before storing it. By making washing your dirt bike a regular part of your maintenance routine, you can enjoy many more rides on your trusty off-road machine.
