Author |
Message |
Jaimec
| Posted on Monday, April 06, 2009 - 08:56 am: |
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Since it applies to the XB, Blast AND 1125 models I'll ask it here rather than cross post every where. Is it necessary to wax the plastics on these bikes? Since the color is molded into the plastic, I wonder if it is necessary or not. I know this sounds like a stupid question, and I don't think I've ever seen it asked before? |
Ourdee
| Posted on Monday, April 06, 2009 - 09:06 am: |
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Some guys use pledge, I've used the spray on H/D cleaner that the dealer gave me for free. Now, I'll get out of the way of the people that know what they are talking about. |
Swordsman
| Posted on Monday, April 06, 2009 - 09:27 am: |
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Not necessary, but it DOES make them shiner and more water repellent. ~SM |
Jaimec
| Posted on Monday, April 06, 2009 - 10:10 am: |
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I'm thinking of just using Plexus, like I use on the windshield. No matter how careful I am with wax, I ALWAYS get ugly white streaks on the metal closest to the "painted" surfaces. Just curious what everyone else does? |
Gentleman_jon
| Posted on Monday, April 06, 2009 - 10:23 am: |
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Plexus actually is a wax, according to the manufacturer, but it is made for plastics, having been designed for aircraft windshields. It sprays on, acts as a cleaner, and when you quickly buff it with a cloth, it leaves what they call a micro layer of wax that really shines. It can be buffed a couple of times before it needs to be resprayed. I would be surprised if it lakes a lot more than five minutes to do the whole bike, and it is great for wheels too as it cleans them and then leaves a shiny surface to which grime does not adhere very well. |
Christiankid3
| Posted on Monday, April 06, 2009 - 10:45 am: |
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I use this stuff right here:
It works great on the plastics and even windshield. I've never seen it leave any white streaks either. |
Teeps
| Posted on Monday, April 06, 2009 - 11:10 am: |
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This what I use. Works well on the whole bike. |
Etennuly
| Posted on Monday, April 06, 2009 - 11:23 am: |
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Uh, I washed mine with Dawn dish soap and water, and wiped it dry with a chamois. That was a couple of weeks ago. I guess I don't keep is as clean and shiny as you guys do. |
Nevrenuf
| Posted on Monday, April 06, 2009 - 12:06 pm: |
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my buddy says that the only reason i take the bikes in to getserviced is to get them washed. when i do though i just use turtle wax wash |
Jaimec
| Posted on Monday, April 06, 2009 - 12:10 pm: |
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Wasn't aware Plexus contained a wax product too. I thought it was just a micro-fine polish/cleaner. |
Sparky
| Posted on Monday, April 06, 2009 - 12:21 pm: |
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It's a good idea to use some kind of gentle wax and occasional cleaner/polish on the plastics because the finish can oxidize and dull over time and use. On my Battle Blue Firebolt I would rub the body panels with a high-quality cleaner/polish (Harley Glaze is good) and some blue would rub off onto the rag and leave a brand new looking shiny finish again. |
Cityxslicker
| Posted on Monday, April 06, 2009 - 12:56 pm: |
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You cant handle my cleaning routine.... It involves every big puddle after a rainstorm, turn around and repeat. Eventually the plastics are all protected from scratches by a good layer of grime, dirt and mud. |
Jaimec
| Posted on Monday, April 06, 2009 - 01:59 pm: |
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That procedure works very well for my K1200LT but I like to keep the 1125R sparkly and pretty. |
Sayitaintso
| Posted on Monday, April 06, 2009 - 02:25 pm: |
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Cityx.......My protection process is similar but there is also a large component of bug guts thrown in there. Those guts are critical as they provide just the right amount of adhesion for the grime, dirt, and mud. |
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