I don't know how it got there, but, I washed the bike really good - about 3 or 4 hours later I decided to go for a ride - as I was walking up to the bike I noticed a white line about 2.5 inches on the top of the tank somewhat near the seat - thought it was a thread from the towel - went to brush it off an GASP it was a scratch!

Now what do I do?

 

Do a search here. You will get all kinds of opinions. Try and get over the shock first, time will help, before you make any big decisions like touching up or using a machine. Myself, I would use Harleys scratch/swirl remover and try to knock it down by hand. Make sure you use a clean or new microfiber towel and go easy. You don't want a bunch of swirl marks around it. You might want to rub in the direction of the scratch first, if no help, perpendicular to scratch and it will take several applications. Their product isn't to abrasive. It probably won't remove it but will make it less noticeable. I wouldn't get crazy with it unless your a pro or you will make it worse.

 

For small scratches/dings go to http://www.colorrite.com. They have matching colors (you'll need your color code) & clear coat in pens. If you take your time & follow instructions small blemishes will disappear.

 

It will likely rub out with paste wax....

 

as long as it didnt go past the clear coat. if it did u need to have it painted if not u can buy this product called (finnesse it) at any autobody store it will take out the scratch and it wont leave swirls it is a mild abrasive used to remove lite scratches and it is a swirl remover. good luck if u need any more advise PM me i do this for a living. been painting for 30 + years.
Rick

 

I would go to a reputable automotive paint shop and have them buff it out. any kind of filler will need to be reapplied after you wash it a few times. Once it is buffed out it will be gone for good.

 

got a nasty scratch once on my rear fender, deep enough to feel with my fingernail, used Quixx Paint Scratch Remover kit, came out really good but it is allot of work. Basically you wet sand, polish with light compound then a finer polish/wax to finish. Very happy with the results.

 

Use that scratch as justification for a custom paint job.

 

I had a 3" scratch on top of my saddle bag. I used Maguire's Scratch X,and it took it right out. It took repeated applications and a little elbow grease, but it isn't even visible anymore. Looks brand new!

 

Wait till you see the scuffs in the clearcoat on the side of your tank caused from your jeans rubbing on the tank.

OMG...........

Try the Harley swirl remover, go easy it cleans up scuffs and scratches real well.......

Ride On...