Corroded SG wheels
Road Warrior
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 1,479
Likes: 4
From: SoCal
RE: Corroded SG wheels
I noted this corrosion on rental bikes that were only 2 years old. I realized that since I waxed the wheels every time I washed the bike (other than the occasional spray-on, wipe-off touchups), I was removing road debris and re-protecting the wheel finish. Unprotected wheels that rotatecreate electrolysis which forms a weak electrical charge that accelerates the corrosion of road salts, moisture and dirt. The HD owner's manual recommends weekly waxing of the bike's wheels, and this I believe is why. My '01 mags show no corrosion.
Road Warrior
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 1,650
Likes: 1
From: North West Ohio
RE: Corroded SG wheels
The wheels on my 06 SG look like new. I clean them with the same stuff I use on the bike. But I use wax on them about 2 times a year. Wax will keep them from oxidizing. I also clean them each time I clean the bike. At least it works for me.
Ride Safe,
Mike
Ride Safe,
Mike
Banned
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 2,301
Likes: 4
From:
RE: Corroded SG wheels
here's a pretty simple solution
Don't ride the bike anyplace.....
Seriously, thoughly clean the rims and remove the chalky residue.
Buy a can of clear shoepolish spray.
spray the rims with this, it won't hurt the metal or coating.
Will last through a couple of washings before needs re applied.
for your back rest and seats.
Get the highest SPF sunblocker you can.
After cleaning, take a slightly damp rag, apply a SMALL amount to rag.
Work it into the rag, very lightly wipe seat down.
When done you should not see or feel the SPF sunblocker.
This helps prevent the ultrviolet from damaging the vinyl.
Armour all and such is some of the worse stuff to use on vinyl exposed to direct sunlight.
Don't ride the bike anyplace.....
Seriously, thoughly clean the rims and remove the chalky residue.
Buy a can of clear shoepolish spray.
spray the rims with this, it won't hurt the metal or coating.
Will last through a couple of washings before needs re applied.
for your back rest and seats.
Get the highest SPF sunblocker you can.
After cleaning, take a slightly damp rag, apply a SMALL amount to rag.
Work it into the rag, very lightly wipe seat down.
When done you should not see or feel the SPF sunblocker.
This helps prevent the ultrviolet from damaging the vinyl.
Armour all and such is some of the worse stuff to use on vinyl exposed to direct sunlight.
Road Master
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 813
Likes: 1
From: REPUBLIC of TEXAS
RE: Corroded SG wheels
the black wheels on the streetglide are what jumped out at me the first time i seen one. the previous owner of my bike cleaned the hell out of the front wheel,but the rear is looking bad, not pitted though. i've tried everything to bring it back, but no bueno. i need to find another one. before i do something drastic.
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Road Warrior
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 1,827
Likes: 34
From: Iowa
RE: Corroded SG wheels
I have the 9 spokes but my front looks like new. I waxed thim this week and couldn't believe how nice it looked. I have a little of what you are talking about on the rear, no pitting, but I thought the clearcoat was coming up??? You say they are not cleared?
Replying to TheBlackBastard, doesn't the RK custom come with black and chrome SG wheels?
Replying to TheBlackBastard, doesn't the RK custom come with black and chrome SG wheels?
Road Captain
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 500
Likes: 0
From:
RE: Corroded SG wheels
never had a problem with my RK Custom wheels, same wheel only not painted. I just use regular car wash soap and water. The oxide layer stuff is true and some of the heavier cleaners are probably washing that off. Use a milder cleaner, or one that is specific for aluminum wheels.