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EAM20126
MOTORCYCLE CARE AND STOR-
AGE
EAM30200
CARE
While the open design of a motorcycle reveals
the attractiveness of the technology, it also
makes it more vulnerable. Rust and corrosion
can develop even if high-quality components are
used. A rusty exhaust pipe may go unnoticed on
a car, however, it detracts from the overall ap-
pearance of a motorcycle. Frequent and proper
care does not only comply with the terms of the
warranty, but it will also keep your motorcycle
looking good, extend its life and optimize its per-
formance.
Before cleaning
1. Cover the muffler outlet with a plastic bag af-
ter the engine has cooled down.
2. Make sure that all caps and covers as well as
all electrical couplers and connectors, includ-
ing the spark plug cap, are tightly installed.
3. Remove extremely stubborn dirt, like oil burnt
onto the crankcase, with a degreasing agent
and a brush, but never apply such products
onto seals, gaskets, sprockets, the drive
chain and wheel axles. Always rinse the dirt
and degreaser off with water.
Cleaning
ECA24220
NOTICE
• Avoid using strong acidic wheel cleaners,
especially on spoked wheels. If such prod-
ucts are used on hard-to-remove dirt, do
not leave the cleaner on the affected area
any longer than instructed. Also, thorough-
ly rinse the area off with water, immediately
dry it, and then apply a corrosion protec-
tion spray.
• Improper cleaning can damage plastic
parts (such as cowlings, panels, wind-
shields, headlight lenses, meter lenses,
etc.) and the mufflers. Use only a soft, clean
cloth or sponge with water to clean plastic.
However, if the plastic parts cannot be thor-
oughly cleaned with water, diluted mild de-
tergent with water may be used. Be sure to
rinse off any detergent residue using plenty
of water, as it is harmful to plastic parts.
• Do not use any harsh chemical products on
plastic parts. Be sure to avoid using cloths
or sponges which have been in contact
with strong or abrasive cleaning products,
MOTORCYCLE CARE AND STORAGE
solvent or thinner, fuel (gasoline), rust re-
movers or inhibitors, brake fluid, antifreeze
or electrolyte.
• Do not use high-pressure washers or
steam-jet cleaners since they cause water
seepage and deterioration in the following
areas: seals (of wheel and swingarm bear-
ings, fork and brakes), electric components
(couplers,
switches and lights), breather hoses and
vents.
• For motorcycles equipped with a wind-
shield: Do not use strong cleaners or hard
sponges as they will cause dulling or
scratching. Some cleaning compounds for
plastic may leave scratches on the wind-
shield. Test the product on a small hidden
part of the windshield to make sure that it
does not leave any marks. If the windshield
is scratched, use a quality plastic polishing
compound after washing.
After normal use
Remove dirt with warm water, a mild detergent,
and a soft, clean sponge, and then rinse thor-
oughly with clean water. Use a toothbrush or
bottlebrush for hard-to-reach areas. Stubborn
dirt and insects will come off more easily if the
area is covered with a wet cloth for a few min-
utes before cleaning.
After riding in the rain, near the sea or on salt-
sprayed roads
Since sea salt or salt sprayed on roads during
winter are extremely corrosive in combination
with water, carry out the following steps after
each ride in the rain, near the sea or on salt-
sprayed roads.
TIP
Salt sprayed on roads in the winter may remain
well into spring.
1. Clean the motorcycle with cold water and a
mild detergent, after the engine has cooled
down.
NOTICE: Do not use warm water since it
increases the corrosive action of the salt.
2. Apply a corrosion protection spray on all met-
al, including chrome- and nickel-plated, sur-
faces to prevent corrosion.
After cleaning
1. Dry the motorcycle with a chamois or an ab-
sorbing cloth.
2. Immediately dry the drive chain and lubricate
it to prevent it from rusting.
1-26
connectors,
instruments,
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