such as those available in
coin-operated car washers.
l harsh chemicals, including
strong
acidic wheel cleaners,
especially on spoke or magne-
sium wheels.
l harsh chemicals, abrasive
cleaning compounds, or wax
on matte-finished parts.
Brushes can scratch and dam-
age the matte-finish, use soft
sponge or towel only.
l towels, sponges, or brushes
contaminated with abrasive
cleaning products or strong
chemicals such as, solvents,
gasoline, rust removers, brake
fluid, or antifreeze, etc.
Before washing
1.
Park the vehicle out of direct sun-
light and allow it to cool. This will
help avoid water spots.
2. Make sure all caps, covers, electri-
cal couplers and connectors are
tightly installed.
3. Cover the muffler end with a plas-
tic bag and a strong rubber band.
4. Pre-soak st
ubborn stains like in-
sects or bird droppings with a wet
towel for a few minutes.
5. Remove road grime and oil stains
with a quality degreasing agent
and a plastic-bristle brush or
sponge. NOTICE: Do not use de-
greasing agent on areas requir-
ing lubrication such as seals,
gaskets, and wheel axles. Fol-
low product instructions.[ECA26290]
Washing
1. Rinse off any degreaser and spray
down the vehicle with a garden
hose. Use only enough pressure to
do the job. Avoid spraying water
directly into the muffler, instrument
panel, air inlet, or other inner areas
such as underseat storage com-
partments.
2. Wash the vehicle with a quality au-
tomotive-type detergent mixed
with cool water and a soft, clean
towel or sponge. Use an old tooth-
brush or plastic-bristle brush for
hard-to-reach places. NOTICE:
Use cold water if the vehicle has
been exposed to salt. Warm wa-
ter will increase salt’s corrosive
properties.[ECA26301]
3. For windshield-equipped vehicles:
Clean the windshield with a soft
towel or sponge dampened with
water and a pH neutral detergent.
If necessary, use a high-quality
windshield cleaner or polish for
motorcycles. NOTICE: Never use
any strong chemicals to clean
the windshield. Additionally,
some cleaning compounds for
plastic may scratch the wind-
shield, so be sure to test all
cleaning products before gener-
al application.[ECA26310]
4. Rinse off thoroughly with clean
water. Be sure to remove all deter-
gent residues, as they can be
harmful to plastic parts.
After washing
1. Dry the vehicle with a chamois or
absorbent towel, preferably micro-
fiber terrycloth.
2. For drive chain-equipped models:
Dry and then lubricate the drive
chain to prevent rust.
Motorcycle care and storage
8-2
8
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