Wheel Care

[12zsawer_imp]

While at the dealer signing the papers yesterday, the fellow mentioned that the wheels are not clear coated but are bare aluminum. He said that they will corrode quickly if not taken good care of. This is a '14 DLX, so just plain silver wheels. Any tips or known good working products to maintain the finish?

[Gumby 1100_imp]

While at the dealer signing the papers yesterday, the fellow mentioned that the wheels are not clear coated but are bare aluminum. He said that they will corrode quickly if not taken good care of. This is a '14 DLX, so just plain silver wheels. Any tips or known good working products to maintain the finish?

I find it hard to believe that the wheels are not clear coated. My 2014 Canadian model are definitely clear coated, but then they are silver with black centre details. I just wipe them down with a rag soaked in WD40.

Without clear coating brake dust would soon become embedded in the pores of the aluminum and they would look terrible.

[Rocky_imp]

[/quote]
I find it hard to believe that the wheels are not clear coated. My 2014 Canadian model are definitely clear coated, but then they are silver with black centre details. I just wipe them down with a rag soaked in WD40.

Without clear coating brake dust would soon become embedded in the pores of the aluminum and they would look terrible.
[/quote]
I agree, and that's how I clean my wheels of any brake dust, lube fling, bugs, tar, etc.

[mininsx_imp]

I use a damp rag for light cleaning and Honda spray cleaner for the heavier stuff.

[Rocky_imp]

I only use WD40 on the wheels.
I never use a hose on a bike but rather warm water and a clean rag.
I sit on a mechanics seat with wheels and work my way around getting into all the nooks and crannies.
It's a good way to get in close and examine the bike as you go.
My friends think I'm anal (guilty ) but my bikes all look better than any of theirs
I like to ride - and I like to look good when I'm doing it

[Huladog_imp]

Doing something similar although I do use a cleaner to scrub off the dirt and stuff.

When dry I wipe Corrosion X on the machined surfaces of the rims and the fork lowers (you know how you end up with rock nicks that eventually turn into spider-webs under the clear coat?).

Of course the surfaces gather dust and dirt while riding but they stay protected and it's easy to reapply.

Aloha,
Huladog