wheel cleaning
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Tourer
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 342
Likes: 1
From: Greenville, South Carolina
wheel cleaning
Would someone tell me why wheel cleaner you buy at any auto parts house says not to be used on motorcycles. I would bet if you go to any motorcycle store and buy wheel cleaner for motorcycles the chemicals would be no different than wheel cleaner you buy at the auto supply stores. What is the difference between chrome on a car wheel and chrome on a bike wheel? Would anyone use chrome wheel cleaner on chrome pipes or any other chrome part?
Road Captain
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 537
Likes: 12
From: Chesapeake, VA.
Harley wheels are not coated, thats why I take them off and have them
powder coated clear..As I am too old to be cleaning wheels after ever ride.
That raw cast aluminum that has NO coating of any kind.....tenn
powder coated clear..As I am too old to be cleaning wheels after ever ride.
That raw cast aluminum that has NO coating of any kind.....tenn
Elite HDF Member
Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 3,846
Likes: 173
From: Simi Valley, CA
They make wheel cleaners for different types of wheels, i.e., uncoated aluminum, polished, painted, chrome, clear-coated, etc. Selecting the appropriate cleaner for your type of wheel is important. That said, I have never seen a "not for use on motorcycles" warning on any of the cleaners I've used.
The exception may be on some one-step cleaner/conditioners because those types leave behind a dressing that will compromise traction if it gets on the tire tread. Most, if not all, "tire dressings" have a "not for use on motorcycles" warning on them for this same reason.
If you're using a straight cleaner I see no problem. If you have any concern after using a wheel cleaner you could always clean the tire tread with a rag dampened with mineral spirits, lacquer thinner, etc., to remove any unwanted residues.
The exception may be on some one-step cleaner/conditioners because those types leave behind a dressing that will compromise traction if it gets on the tire tread. Most, if not all, "tire dressings" have a "not for use on motorcycles" warning on them for this same reason.
If you're using a straight cleaner I see no problem. If you have any concern after using a wheel cleaner you could always clean the tire tread with a rag dampened with mineral spirits, lacquer thinner, etc., to remove any unwanted residues.
Tourer
Joined: Mar 2013
Posts: 309
Likes: 815
From: SE Texas
I believe that some cleaners that say "not for use on motorcycles" will remove the chrome from the spokes on spoked wheels.
I wont use a cleaner that says specifically " not for use on motorcycles" on my bike. There is a reason this is stated on the product.
I wont use a cleaner that says specifically " not for use on motorcycles" on my bike. There is a reason this is stated on the product.
Extreme HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 14,731
Likes: 2,536
From: Mountain Top, Alabama
I like to go as mild as I can on cleaning my chrome spoke wheels.
Thus far, all I have ever used on cleaning chrome is Maguires, the same soapy solution I use on cleaning the entire bike. Westleys on the WWW from time to time, and only if needed.
Thus far, all I have ever used on cleaning chrome is Maguires, the same soapy solution I use on cleaning the entire bike. Westleys on the WWW from time to time, and only if needed.
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Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2012
Posts: 9,982
Likes: 5,220
From: Michigan
I use the appropriate (aluminum, chrome) spray cleaner on my wheels.
I then rinse with warm water, then use Dawn dishwashing detergent on my wheels, and then dry them with a terry cloth towel.
I also use soft bristle brushes for the nooks and crannies.
I have a "bagger" and that rear wheel is a b*t*h to get and keep clean!
I then rinse with warm water, then use Dawn dishwashing detergent on my wheels, and then dry them with a terry cloth towel.
I also use soft bristle brushes for the nooks and crannies.
I have a "bagger" and that rear wheel is a b*t*h to get and keep clean!
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Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 11,476
Likes: 3,003
From: Charleston, SC
I use car wash soap, water, and a sponge thing that looks like toilet cleaner only softer. No other chemicals.
If you have to use a chemical, use a product safe for bare aluminum unless you have a Limited.
in that case use whatever.
If you have to use a chemical, use a product safe for bare aluminum unless you have a Limited.
in that case use whatever.
