Is it safe to wash a dirt bike?

You already know that dirt bike adventures usually leave both rider and the bike covered in mud and dirt. Real riders are not afraid to get dirty, right? Keeping your mud monster in a pristine condition is a mission impossible if you’re any serious about the riding part. Not to mention, if you tend to ride a lot on soft or wet tracks, your bike will be muddy most of the time. Therefore, if you’re not a fan of leaving it dirty between the rides, read on. In this blog post, we are talking about the safest and quickest ways to freshen your ride up and answering never ending question: How to wash a dirt bike?

Why is it so important to wash a dirt bike regularly?

Dirt and mud is more than just a matter that covers your good looking dirt bike graphics. Sure, leaving your ride covered in dust is one thing but having your MX decals invisible is a total no-go. Does this mean that you should wash your motorbike after each ride? To be honest, it is all about your personal preferences.  But at the end of the day, we should keep our dirt bikes rather fresh. First of all, it is nicer to have a good looking machine before the next run. Second, dirt and mud can infiltrate various nooks and crannies. That might compromise the performance and longevity of your bike. And third, cleaning routine gives you a chance to inspect the condition of your ride. The best check up happens while you are cleaning and are able to touch everything on your machine. 

One thing is absolutely clear – washing your dirt bike is an important aspect to maintain its longevity. If you follow our Do’s list and avoid the Dont’s, we can assure that you’ll have a long and happy life together with your two wheeled partner. So gear up, grab that hose and give your dirt bike the TLC it deserves. After all, frequent cleaning is more than just taking care of the looks. It is a crucial maintenance to ensure that your dirt bike remains in a top shape visually and mechanically. 

The Do’s of Washing Your Dirt Bike

Prepare for it

You don’t just go with a hose and run all over the bike with a water pressure. First of all, you have to cover all the sensitive areas like air filter, exhaust and electrical components. Don’t you dare to skip this step.

Use the best products

Not all cleaning agents are created equal. You already know that your dirt bike deserves the best, right? Therefore, choose mild detergents or specially formulated bike wash solutions. Always avoid harsh chemicals that could lead to unnecessary damage. Sure, they might promise to do the job faster, but that’s not always the main goal.

Choose the right pressure

You might think that high-pressure washers could do the job faster. However, they come with their own package of risks. For example, a blast of high-pressure water can force its way into delicate areas. Stick to a low-pressure setting to ensure a thorough clean without compromising your bike’s well-being.

Focus on the Chain

The chain of your bike deserves a special pampering. Use a brush and a nice chain cleaner to eliminate the dirt and grime. Then add some lubricant generously to make sure the chain runs smoothly.

Inspect While Cleaning

Think of the cleaning process as a win – win activity. First of all, your bike will look nice. Second – you’ll be able to check any signs of wear and tear. Look for loose bolts, damaged parts or potential leaks. 

The Don’ts of Washing Your Dirt Bike

Washing everything

Resist the temptation to spray water directly into sensitive areas like airbox, exhaust, and electrical components. This can lead to performance issues and potential damage. Who wants that, right? Not taking care of the air filter

The air filter is like a gatekeeper of your bike’s engine. Never neglect its care. Remove and clean the air filter separately to prevent water or debris from infiltrating the engine.

Stripping away the grease

Grease guarantees a smooth job of the moving parts. Therefore, use a brush and mild detergent to clean your ride without stripping away the lubrication.

Skipping the drying process

Never leave your bike wet after cleaning! This can invite rust and corrosion to your garage, and we’re not up for that. After a good cleanse, take the time to thoroughly dry your bike. Gently pat down with a microfibre cloth or allow it to air dry.