Detailing a RC-51 (motorcycle)

R

Red Wolf

New member
My friend has an RC-51,at some point he will ask me to assist in detailing it,which doesn't bother me any but I am wondering:

1. I am assuming any products/techniques that apply to clear coated cars are the same for the bike. Right now I am planing on wash IHG or #7 then souveran. this bike has been in storage since october so I shouldn't have to use dawn right?

2. Has anyone tried Zaino/Klasse Meg #20 or another polymer on bike rims? does it make them easier to clean like it does for a car?

3. Any tips/techniques words of warning would be appreciated. I know to liberally coat the tread area of the tires with protectant...just kidding.



It has a full fairing made from ABS plastic as far as I know

http://www.hondamotorcycle.com/models/2002/index.html?model_number=RVT1000R
 
When I used to detail my street bikes (sold 'em all), I always did the following:



1) Remove seat, mirrors, turn signals, and any other dark plastic items. It makes it easier to keep wax residue off of them and prevents staining.



2) If you really want to do a great job, wash the bike, then take the panels off and detail them. Too many fasteners get in the way, too many crevices, etc.



3) Spend a lot of time on the tank. The part where your zippers hit is always scratched, so have some SMR handy. I always did a minimum of 2 layers of protectant on the tank.



4) Don't use RainX on the windscreen - they're plastic, and RainX makes them really static charged (at least on mine it did).



5) Use some kerosene to clean the chain, then give it a nice coat of ChainWax (or similar) after you've washed the bike.



6) Zaino on rims rules- keeps the chainwax & brake dust nice and easy to remove.



That's about it! Good luck, and take pics! RC-51 was one of my favorite rides.
 
I agree with GeekySteve. I always do a full detail of my ZX7R in the winter by removing all the panels and doing them piece by piece inside the house. Too many curves, too many fasteners, and small surfaces make it very difficult to do a good job on the bike. I have not used any sealants on the rims, as I have black rims, but have found WD40 to be very good at removing chain lube and brake dust. Be careful if you are using wheel cleaners for cars on the bike rims. Many of them are not recommended for the alloys on bike rims (got this information from the Eagle One people).
 
On the chain -use wd40 to clean then use a good chain lube



on the rims- I use a product called Honda clean and polish. it comes in a can. it sprays on and wipes off. works great.



DO NOT use any tire dressing on the wheels or seats, unless you want him to crash the bike.



On the windshield (plastic I use Novus plastic cleaner. It will remove scratches and bugs.



If the bike is very dirty I would wash it down with s100 total bike wash



On the fairing I use a paint cleaner then Soveran (only the best on my bike)



You will find scratches on the tank caused by zippers and buckles. I would use any type of scrach removal of your choice



Remember to wipe down all of the little areas like the brake fluid cap and other areas.



Wipe down the mirrors



Also clean out the exhaust pipe tips. They will be black.



This is what I do on my and my friends bikes.







I ride a Ducati 996 (red)



Good luck
 
also

-never use a power washer. They force water into bad areas

-depening on the bike you might need chrome polsh or some metal polish

-you might want to get some pipe cleaners or little brushes for those tight corners.



good luck
 
then have him clean it after EVERY ride:



If it's a wet or long ride: wash and wax.



For short rides and on the road detailing: plexus on the windscreen and helmet visor, s100 detail+wax on painted pieces.



Should have bottles of s100 and plexus at all times!!!!!
 
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