146 MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENT
j
system, brake components, electri-
cal components, muffler outlets, and
fuel tank openings.
Washing Your Motorcycle
•
Rinse your motorcycle with cold wa-
ter from a garden hose to remove any
loose dirt.
•
Mix a mild neutral detergent (de-
signed for motorcycles or automo-
biles) and water in a bucket. Use
a soft cloth or sponge to wash your
motorcycle. If needed, use a mild de-
greaser to remove any oil or grease
build up.
•
After washing, rinse your motorcy-
cle thoroughly with clean water to re-
move any residue (residue from the
detergent can damage parts of your
motorcycle).
•
Use a soft cloth to dry your motorcy-
cle. As you dry, inspect your motor-
cycle for chips and scratches. Do not
let the water air dry as this can dam-
age the painted surfaces.
•
Start the engine and let it idle for sev-
eral minutes. The heat from the en-
gine will help dry moist areas.
•
Carefully ride your motorcycle at a
slow speed and apply the brakes
several times. This helps dry the
brakes and restores them to normal
operating performance.
•
Lubricate the drive chain to prevent
rusting.
NOTE
Afterridinginanareawherethe
roads are salted or near the ocean,
immediately wash your motorcycle
with c
old water. Do not use warm
water as it accelerates the chemical
reaction of the salt. After drying,