Whether you own a custom cruiser or a souped up sport bike, you'll want to keep your motorcycle away from commercial washing facilities and perform the cleaning ritual yourself. Those high-pressure hoses can damage bike parts, which are more vulnerable than mechanical parts in cars.

Be sure you find a shady spot to wash (and dry) your bike, since the sun can create temperature differentials that harm paint and allow water to leave spots.

Assemble the following items as needed:

A bucket for soapy water
Soap or liquid detergent; automotive cleaners will work
Gloves (to keep your hands clean)
Bug and tar remover
Degreaser and/or engine cleaner
A toothbrush
WD40
A brush for wheel cleaning
Wheel cleaner
At least two microfiber or 100% cotton sponges
A variety of soft cotton towels and more abrasive rags
A chamois cloth for drying


Prepping the Water
While some people swear by washing their bikes with plain water, others insist on using specific brands of soap. Whatever your style, use warm water with the mix and fill up a bucket for convenience. Keep the sponge nearby, and don't let it touch the ground (since it can pick up pebbles or abrasive particles that could damage your paint.)

De-Bug!
Dead bugs and grime are the bane of every motorcyclist, but using the right tools will get them off your paint easier than you think.

Bug and tar removers work surprisingly well, and some people also use WD40 for this duty. Don't scrub too hard into the paint when loosening bugs, and be sure not to use the same sponge for other cleaning duties.

Washing the Body
Microfiber sponge gloves are great ways to clean a bike's painted parts, and should be used with warm, soapy water from the bucket in Step #2. Be sure to get the paint good and wet before scrubbing, so the soapy water can act as a lubricant and not scratch the paint. Only use 100% cotton or microfiber sponges, as other materials can cause damage.

Rinse the soapy residue off with a gentle stream of water from a hose, or by pouring water from the bucket.