How to Polish Motorcycle Wheels

Polishing your motorcycle wheels is an important part of regular maintenance.

Cleaning and maintaining your motorcycle seems like a simple task. To do a thorough job, however, requires polishing your motorcycle's wheels. Clean, polished wheels add greatly to the good looks of a motorcycle, returning it to that just-purchased look. Polishing your wheels is a short process and requires only basic cleaning tools.

Things You'll Need

• Hot, soapy water
• Rags
• Old toothbrush
• Chrome polish (or metal-specific polish, if desired)
• Tire dressing

Instructions

1. Park your motorcycle on a flat, clean surface. Be sure the bike is as stable and secure as possible.

2. Use hot, soapy water and a rag to thoroughly clean each tire and all surfaces of the wheels. Do a good job, as polish only works well on completely clean surfaces.

3. Use an old toothbrush to scrub the edges and all crevices of your motorcycle's wheels. Keep scrubbing until you remove all rust, grime or other build-up.

4. Rinse the tires using clean water and allow them to dry before you continue.

5. Pour a small amount of chrome polish on a rag. You can use polish specific to aluminum or classic steel if the rims are made of that material, but chrome polish usually provides for a brighter shine. Gently rub the polish over all metal surfaces of the motorcycle's wheels. Circle the polish back and forth, working it into the pores of the metal. Rub briskly with a clean cloth until the metal gleams.

6. Pour a good amount of tire dressing onto a rag and spread it across the surface of the motorcycle's tires. Rub the dressing back and forth, working it into the pores of the rubber. Keep rubbing until you see a steady, even shine set into both tires.

Tips & Warnings

• Investing in more expensive polishes generally provides better results. These polishes are typically made with better ingredients and provide for a better-looking, longer-lasting shine.

• Always use caution when working with potentially hazardous chemicals.

References

• Motorcycle Cruiser: Motorcycle Detailing