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+--- Thread: Wheel cleaners (/showthread.php?tid=9817)
Wheel cleaners - 1100rider_imp - 05-07-2015
I am trying to find out how to clean the aluminum wheels on my CB. I also have a VTX1800F that has ugly aluminum rims and need to be cleaned. Are the wheels clear coated or can I use something like a Mother product without damaging them? Any products out there that will help me?
RE: Wheel cleaners - metallyguitarded_imp - 05-07-2015
Pledge has become my go-to cleaning product that I use on just about every part of the bike (with the exception of the chain), including the wheels. Pledge and a microfiber towel does wonders. The black wheels on my standard do not have a clear coat on them. Not sure about the silver wheels on the DLX or '13 standard.
RE: Wheel cleaners - MrTim_imp - 05-07-2015
I use engine degreaser on my grey/silver wheels. I'll spray some on a rag or the wheel itself and it just destroys road grime and chain lube, it stands head and shoulders above the Maguiar's non-acid wheel cleaner I used to use. As soon as I've cleaned the grime off I'll rinse it with a hose.
I'm not sure whether or not this method is kosher but I find it extremely effective, I'm going to start waxing the wheels once they're clean as well as I've heard this makes them much easier to keep clean.
RE: Wheel cleaners - Kiwikevin_imp - 05-07-2015
I use this:- http://www.tmkpackers.co.nz/index.php/site/product/fuelite
I'm sure you'll have a similar product in the US. Just soak some in a rag and wipe all wheel surfaces clean. Works a treat!
RE: Wheel cleaners - Cormanus - 05-07-2015
When you're a clutz like me, using anything marked "DANGER" as clearly as Fuelite would be a recipe for disaster. Cormanus and a CB would vanish in a puff of acrid smoke.
RE: Wheel cleaners - Rocky_imp - 05-07-2015
I use WD40 on my wheels (especially the rear wheel) to clean off any lube fling and general road dust and dirt. I take it easy at first to remove abrasive dust and grit then go after any lube, grease, road tar.
If the aluminum is bare you will have to use an aluminum polish.
Clean them well first to remove any grit that may scratch the metal.
I'm pretty sure that aluminum is clear coated or it would tarnish in no time at all depending on your weather and riding conditions.
RE: Wheel cleaners - ChipBeck_imp - 05-08-2015
(05-07-2015, 06:33 AM)1100rider_imp Wrote: I am trying to find out how to clean the aluminum wheels on my CB. I also have a VTX1800F that has ugly aluminum rims and need to be cleaned. Are the wheels clear coated or can I use something like a Mother product without damaging them? Any products out there that will help me?
1100,
On the '13 CB11 the wheels are clear coated to protect the bare aluminum from corrosion. The safest and most effective cleaner for them is WD-40. It quickly and effortlessly removes grease slung off of your chain on to the rear wheel. Road tar, grime, and everything else comes off easy as well. Unlike many other cleaners WD-40 will not harm the clear coat or paint. The original purpose of WD-40 was to protect bare aluminum aircraft surfaces from corrosion from salt air and mist near the ocean.
Don't spray it directly on to your wheels as you may get it on your tires as well making them slick. Spray it on to a rag and wipe your wheels off. You'll be blown away at how well it works. Cheers.
Chip
RE: Wheel cleaners - Cormanus - 05-08-2015
1100rider, Chip knows what he's talking about. Look at his avatar. That plane is going straight up into the sky. It couldn't do that if it hadn't been carefully sprayed with WD40.
RE: Wheel cleaners - mininsx_imp - 05-08-2015
(05-07-2015, 06:33 AM)1100rider_imp Wrote: I am trying to find out how to clean the aluminum wheels on my CB. I also have a VTX1800F that has ugly aluminum rims and need to be cleaned. Are the wheels clear coated or can I use something like a Mother product without damaging them? Any products out there that will help me?
I use spray Honda cleaner/wax sprayed onto a rag if they're really dirty, otherwise a damp rag.
RE: Wheel cleaners - 1100rider_imp - 05-08-2015
Thanks for the help. I will try several of the methods listed.