detailing motorcycle tires

[CarbonBlack]

I realize this is a topic that could possibly go under the "motorcycle" topic thread, but it also applies to vehicles, so here it is.

I recently detailed my 50cc scooter, and went to apply tire dressing (not meguiars, sorry)

before doing so, I read the back and it basically said "don't use on motorcycles due to making the tires slick and dangerous".

that is understandable, but does anyone have any recommendations on how to protect these tires?

I have thought of using "gold class" dash wipes??? is that asking for it?

[Murr1525]

Re: detailing motorcycle tires

Quick Interior Detailer maybe.... maybe....

[Murr1525]

Re: detailing motorcycle tires

You can certianly clean them of course though, using something like APC and a soft brush, maybe toothbrush, to at least make them nicer in general.

[BINGO53]

Re: detailing motorcycle tires

I read the back and it basically said "don't use on motorcycles due to making the tires slick and dangerous"

Thats what I read there too. I do not do very many M/Cs, but this has worked well for me with owner pleasing results. I use a stiff tire brush with Simple Green (or similar cleaner) mixed somewhat strong, as in close to 50/50. I will usually do the tires first, and then brush wash again with GC or NXT soap after the paint wash.

You will often find the same warning on the back of leather, or vinyl cleaner/conditioners too. I did do one Harley Davidson seat for an "old codger" once, and so far he has not as yet slipped off.

[AeroCleanse]

Re: detailing motorcycle tires

Bad idea to use dressing on motorcycle tires. In turns the bike leans over onto the sidewall...make that slick and well you get the idea. That's why bike tires looks different than car tires. So the advice to just clean them is the best idea.

[CarbonBlack]

Re: detailing motorcycle tires

Bad idea to use dressing on motorcycle tires........the advice to just clean them is the best idea.

I kinda agree. motorcycles are dangerous enough as is. the risks outweigh the rewards.

[Lydia]

Re: detailing motorcycle tires

I strongly disagree. But we'll leave it at that. Either way, you do not want to use a dressing on motorcycle tires. I've never seen a motorcycle tire that is used often dry out and crack, so it will probably be fine.

[BINGO53]

Re: detailing motorcycle tires

... Either way, you do not want to use a dressing on motorcycle tires. I've never seen a motorcycle tire that is used often dry out and crack, so it will probably be fine.

As far as tire dressings go, I have never thought of them being a preservative. Most of us with our daily drivers never spend any time at all with the inner sides of our tires. (lift-kit enthusiasts excepted.) A well cleaned and properly scrubbed tire looks good, but we just like the look of a little something extra for our cars. If you look around, it would look unnatural to see a bright shiny tire on a MC.

BTW:
Lydia, as you are looking at this thread, what have you used if anything on footplates, should as HD Glide series?

[Lydia]

Re: detailing motorcycle tires

I use #40 on them. Just spray it on, work it into the grooves if needed (I use a triple duty detail brush to work it into small grooves), then wipe it off in a minute or two. Works great and isn't slippery.

I agree about it not being a preservative. I was just mentioning that because he asked how to protect the tires.

[Stimpy68]

Re: detailing motorcycle tires

I never put a tyredressing or dressing of any kind, on my bikes tyres. It's dangerous (my opninion)! I have a sportsbike (Honda CBR600F, 110 hp), the risk is too great to take, there are only 2 small patches of rubbers which keeps you on the road, if these patsches are slipery, I wouldn't want to think what will happen when I dive into a corner at speed! Better to be safe then sorry!

[BINGO53]

Re: detailing motorcycle tires

I use #40 on them. Just spray it on, work it into the grooves if needed...

Thank you for the reply. While finishing the detail, with owners permission I did that on the right rear plate as an experiment. (wife gets on from the left). It works and looks great!

Now if I could only stumble onto to a surefire procedure for powder coated, or crinkle paint engine cases!