Cleaning stuff

[sthomag]

I'm always looking for easier ways to clean my machines, and recently stumbled on something that actually works.

S100 works OK but it's not terrific and it costs too much. But RainX Bug and Tar Remover is not only cheap, it really cleans well: things like dirty wheels and engine cases. The instructions say to use it as a spot remover, but it's cheap enough to just use it as a general cleaner. In any case, it's nice to paintwork, but really takes care of dried-on crud.

It's not spray-on, hose off: you do have to go over it with a cloth or brush. But you don't have to scrub at all, just wipe.

Just thought I'd put it out there.

[Perazzimx14]

To combat baked/dried on bugs on my bikes I simply park the bike in the shade and spray it w/ the garden hose. Sit down drink a beer and allow the swarf to re-hydrate. After a few minutes  spray the bike off again and a vast majority of the bugs are gone. Then wash with whatever soap/water solution I have handy and a clean soft cloth. When the wheels get really crudy especially the chain driven bikes a spritz of WD40 or PB plaster on some paper towels and wipe away.

[rodekyll]

In the far north, when you stop the bike for gas the employees go over the bike and individually remove each bug splat.  They eat them.  By the time the bike is gassed and you've had coffee, it's bug-free.

[Sasquatch Jim]

  Just ride through an acetone shower slowly.

[JayDee24ca]

Can't remember who it was, Charlie M. maybe, that recommended Lemon Pledge for removing bugs and tar. I use it now and it works great and smells good too!
John D.

[ITSec]

Can't remember who it was, Charlie M. maybe, that recommended Lemon Pledge for removing bugs and tar. I use it now and it works great and smells good too!
John D.

Use regular Pledge if you do this - the lemon stuff attracts some bees and wasps...

[Sheepdog]

Original Bike Spirits aerosol detailer has been my favorite for years. Bugs, dirt, oil, etc come off quickly and an unstreaked, shiny finish remains. It even works on my Beemer's matte finish, restoring dirty surfaces to as-new condition. If you keep the cap on, you can even keep a can in a saddlebag without fear of leaking. This makes it perfect for a daily cleaning/inspecting of the bike after a day of touring (I've discovered a number of loosening bolts this way)...just bring along a new microfiber towel.