I have always used 0000 steel wool and tar remover.Don't use this procedure on anything but chrome.

 

i use goof off with a tooth brush, if that doesnt get it I use Nevr-Dull Wadding Polish

 

I have used the petroleum type tar remover products. Spray on a let it absorb for a few seconds then rub off with clean cloth. Repeat same process again if needed. After its all gone just clean remaining residue and polish with your usual bike cleaning/polishing products. Just take your time.

 

The obvious when pipes are cool Tar Remover,using soft rags or towels,and not be in a hurry.You can scrap most of it off with a plastic tool before applying the Tar Remover to speed things up.

 

Get your pipes hot and then use a old Nickel (0.05 cents) to rub and remove the tar. The coin is softer than the pipes and will not scratch them.

 

worked for a City Govt. for 25 years in the street dept. paving when people would come to us after the dumb asses would run through our fresh bitch(asphalt sealer) we discovered that the citrus non abrasive hand cleaner worked great. I still use it today.

 

Goo BE Gone
Everyone should have a bottle of this stuff around the house and garage.
It removes just about anything and has never hurt anything I put it on.

 

A single edge razor blade will work.

 

I picked up some stuff called Road Rub (www.roadrub.com) at a rally this weekend and I have to say that I was friggin impressed! My wife had some serious boot melt on her pipes and this crap took it off like I was just erasing it....on cold pipes! Blew me away.

 

Armor all cleaning wipes work good also on cold pipes.