Another thing I'll add that I had to learn the hard way is keep your pad fresh. Either blow out or brush your pad with a conditioning brush often, or change to a fresh pad every couple of panels. The pads get loaded with junk and lose their effectiveness otherwise.

 

+1 on Griot's G8 Mini Random Orbital Polisher.

 

Thanks for the tip on the pads. Here is Griots G8 Mini description - sounds like maybe this unit wont have problems with stalling:
"This polisher is all about the power… the increased power! With 700 watts, there is a 191% increase in power from the previous 3” Random Orbital. Plus, there’s a 60% increase in orbit, going from a 5mm orbit to an 8mm. The Griot’s Garage G8 Mini Random Orbital Polisher reaches 2,000 to 6,400 orbits per minute thanks to its 6-speed settings and fan-cooled counterbalance."
"G8's gearset is 45% stronger that the previous 3" machine, its constant speed control won't bog down pad rotation when you apply pressure, and its fan-cooled counterbalance is so forward thinking we're having it patented."

My paint is in pretty good shape really some light swirls here and there, so hope the Pinnacle does well.

 

Dang I will keep that in mind. I normally apply light pressure really... probably not enough lol. But this is using my Porter Cable ... I'm definitely a newbie. I plan starting on the back side of a bag first to get the feel of it, etc.

 

With 3 or 4in pads it "Shouldn't" be a problem. I do more cars and trucks and I think that way when responding. I still like thinner 4in pads. Way more stable. The Rupes pads are really nice 4in pads. Their yellow finishes down amazingly well

 

Reviving an older thread....I just bought a '09 EG and I do not think the paint has ever been worked. Lot's of scuffs, hard water deposits and some unknown light blemishes. I only have a Ryobi drill based buffer kit, so I will buy one of the orbitals mentioned in this thread. My big question is where do I start and with what pads/compounds? I am not looking for a showroom finish, I just know that the bikes paint can look a lot better than it does. A list in order would be awesome starting with pads......

 

I have had good results using my Zota 3 inch RO polisher ($80 at Amazon)using Griots Garage correcting cream with their orange pads and Carpro Reflect polish using a Carpro polishing pad. I have used this combination on my 06 Softail and and my truck, except for the polisher for the truck was a Griots G9.

Im sure Eaglefan1, Gizmo and Caffeine Buzz will be along shortly to chime in. They all have more experience than I do and can give better advice than I. I have also used some Wolfgang products and have had good results.

My next project will be doing paint correction on my RGU and I plan on using Wolfgang Total Swirl remover and Wolfgang finishing glaze with Gyeon Cancoat as the coating. Just take your time and you should be ok.

 

Keeping in mind you're not looking for a showroom finish, I'll suggest the following. Since it sounds like the paint is pretty hammered in this case, but you're also not looking for perfection, I would start with a Griot's Garage white foam cutting pad and Griot's Fast Correcting Cream on a 3" machine (The G8 or G13 are both great). From there I would follow it up with either the Perfecting Cream and a yellow foam pad (which will require an application of your wax, sealant, or coating of choice after) or the Ceramic All-in-One Wax (would not require follow up with any form of protection) with a yellow pad. This is essentially a two step cut and buff where the first step is going to remove most of the heavier imperfections and the second step is going to refine the finish after the cut step.

Of course you're going to want to decontaminate the paint first with clay if it needs it. After you've washed the paint, stick your hand in a sandwich bag and rub it over the surface. If you can feel bumps, it needs clayed.

Any questions, let us know.

 

3D One https://www.detailedimage.com/3D-M98...gaAjeXEALw_wcB


50/50 uro pad
If the bike is vivid black this might not be the best choice. However it does simplify the process

 

Great info guys. I found the Griot G8 Kit at Advanced Auto locally in stock - Included in the kit: The G8 and 8 oz Complete Compound, 1 - 8 oz Ceramic 3-IN-1 Wax (with trigger nozzle), 2 - 3" BOSS Correcting Foam Pads. All for $155. I will see if they have the white foam cutting pads & Correcting Cream & if so will grab them too.

Kinda bummed, I just put my front fairing half back on Tuesday after wiring in my ZumoXT wiring harness. I reckon it will have to come back off to buff it properly, so no real big & at least I know how to do it now.