cleaning fork tubes ????

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Dec 17, 2009 | 09:15 AM

sixshooter

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Road Master

Joined: Jun 2009

Posts: 1,062

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From: Batavia, NY

cleaning fork tubes ????

its my understanding that the lower fork tubes have some kind of laminate coating on them. is that accurate? ive got the single disc front end (90 sporty) and the brake side has a lot of brake dust that isnt just coming off with a good wipedown. whats the best way to clean up the tube without removing that laminate coating? im pickin up a polishing kit from JP cycles for stainless and aluminum, should i try using that real lightly? any other ideas?

Dec 17, 2009 | 09:31 AM

BINGO53

Intermediate

Joined: Dec 2009

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The "laminate" is more closely related to automotive type clear coat. The best preventative is keeping the fork tubes (rest of bike too) clean and well waxed. To remove the accumulated dust for now. Always start with the least method aggressive first. I have used Meguiar's "Scratch-X" with a terry cloth applicator pad, and lots of elbow grease. You will have to apply a lot of rubbing pressure. As in really really press down with your thumb. However, it should remove the embedded dust w/o removing all of the coating. Afterwards, on those rainy days, sit around and wax your bike.
The use of a good quality "Instant Detailer" spray after a ride will go a long way to preventing build up of brake dust and road grime. Im partial to Meguiar's products, but there are many other good finish maintence products out there on the market.

Respectfully,
BINGO53

PS: Careful with the metal polishing kit. It will likely remove the coating and then you will be stuck with constant polishing and maintence to keep the metal from dulling.

Last edited by BINGO53; Dec 17, 2009 at 09:33 AM. Reason: add info

Dec 17, 2009 | 10:26 AM

sixshooter

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Road Master

Joined: Jun 2009

Posts: 1,062

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From: Batavia, NY

thanks for all the help! i keep the bike pretty clean, but the dust had already been embedded in the fork tube when i got the bike. so im cleanin up someone elses mess

Dec 17, 2009 | 10:03 PM

BINGO53

Intermediate

Joined: Dec 2009

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Hi !
I would still try the scratch-X as mentioned above before doing anything as drastic as using a metal polish. I have removed some serious embedded debris with this product. But be forwarned, it will take some serious elbow grease to accomplish, but you might still be able to salvage the clear coating.
I have friends who have intentionally removed the clear coat from the entie assembly, in order to polish/shine the bare aluminum to an almost chrome shine. Its a great look, but VERY high maintence.

Respectfully,
BINGO 53

Dec 18, 2009 | 11:22 AM

dm76

Cruiser

Joined: May 2009

Posts: 147

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From: San Antonio,TX

just put these on 'em

No really, are these any good?
You can find them cheaper on ebay...

Last edited by dm76; Dec 18, 2009 at 11:24 AM.

Dec 18, 2009 | 12:59 PM

3rdgear

Road Captain

Joined: Oct 2008

Posts: 615

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From: Nederland, Tx

I dont know.. I have the same issue.. I thought about getting the covers or getting some chrome forks but man those things are pricey..

Dec 18, 2009 | 04:56 PM

sixshooter

Thread Starter

Road Master

Joined: Jun 2009

Posts: 1,062

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From: Batavia, NY

those would look nice, but the bike is goin up for sale this spring. expense is gonna be kept to a minimum this winter, im just cleanin it up and doin basic maintenance.