18 CLEANING, CARE 93
18.1 Cleaning the motorcycle
Note
Material damage Components become damaged or destroyed if a pressure cleaner is used incorrectly.
The high pressure forces water into the electrical components, connectors, throttle cables, and bearings, etc.
Pressure which is too high causes malfunctions and destroys components.
– Do not direct the water jet directly on to electrical components, connectors, throttle cables or bearings.
– Maintain a minimum distance between the nozzle of the pressure cleaner and the component.
Minimum clearance 60 cm (23.6 in)
Warning
Environmental hazard Hazardous substances cause environmental damage.
– Dispose of oils, grease, filters, fuel, cleaning agents, brake fluid, etc., correctly and in compliance with the applicable regu-
lations.
Info
If you clean the motorcycle regularly, its value and appearance will be maintained over a long period.
Avoid direct sunshine on the motorcycle during cleaning.
401061-01
– Close off the exhaust system to keep water from entering.
– First remove coarse dirt particles with a gentle spray of water.
– Spray very dirty areas with a normal motorcycle cleaner and then clean with a
paintbrush.
Motorcycle cleaner ( p. 108)
Info
Use warm water containing normal motorcycle cleaner and a soft sponge.
Never apply motorcycle cleaner to a dry vehicle; always rinse the vehicle
with water first.
– After rinsing the motorcycle with a gentle spray of water, allow it to dry thoroughly.
– Remove the closure of the exhaust system.
Warning
Danger of accidents Moisture and dirt impair the brake system.
– Brake carefully several times to dry out and remove dirt from the brake
linings and the brake discs.
– After cleaning, ride a short distance until the engine reaches operating tempera-
ture.
Info
The heat produced causes water at inaccessible locations in the engine and
on the brake system to evaporate.
– Push back the protection caps of the handlebar controls to allow any water that has
penetrated to evaporate.
– After the motorcycle has cooled off, lubricate all moving parts and bearings.
– Clean the chain. ( p. 56)
– Treat bare metal parts (except for brake discs and the exhaust system) with a corro-
sion inhibitor.
Preserving materials for paints, metal and rubber ( p. 108)
– Treat all plastic parts and powder-coated parts with a mild cleaning and care agent.
Special cleaner for glossy and matte paint finishes, metal and plastic surfaces
( p. 108)