Detailing Question(s)

[Death Arrow 007]

Hello Everybody...

I'm going to have bunches of questions here in the near future. From what I've read the past few days, this seems to be the place to do it. Lots of knowledge getting passed around here.

I've recently purchased a 2015 R3T and since it runs like a top (for now), my main concern is proper detailing. I have the Phantom Black w/pinstripes model. I live in an apartment complex and the bike will be spending it's entire riding season sitting outside without so much as a carport roof over it. Nothing but the weather... I did get a , but there's no use putting that on until I get my baby all cleaned up and shiney AND protected from the elements as much as possible... Which is where you guys come in.

For starters, I want to know how to properly care for my rims. They already have a coating of dusty residue that I need to remove ASAP without trashing them. Thing is, before i can do that, I need to know whether or not theyre "coated". Im guessing they are, but i want to know for sure.

Then if anyone can suggest a good product to clean and maintain them,

 

[Death Arrow 007]

... I'd very much appreciate it. Thanks.

 

[Sensfan]

The pledge guys will be on board shortly, my personal choice is dry shine, it's wipe on aND wipe off, my ride never sees water from me,it's so easy,takes me 20 mins to do a R3T from stem to stern to show shine

 

[Death Arrow 007]

Pledge and Dry Shine will clean the aluminum rims properly and maintain them for as long as possible?

 

[Sensfan]

Pledge and Dry Shine will clean the aluminum rims properly and maintain them for as long as possible?

No,the aluminum rims,sooner or later will take some real elbow grease,just the way it is

 

[Death Arrow 007]

I used to have a xtx1800 with a Sumo-x 230mm with a solid aluminum polished rim. I know all about the application of elbow grease. I used plenty of Blue Magic back then.

Now today I have the aluminum wheels on my Rocket which are pretty much brand new.

Are they coated? I guess a "coated" rim means it's clear coated. This is one answer I'm looking for.

My next question is, how to thoroughly clean and care for them properly to keep them new as long as possible. I do not want to mess them up.

 

[Claviger]

Not coated at all, straight raw aluminum. Treat with care, mild acids not harsh, etc. They will rapidly corrode with the mix of brake dust and moisture, as all raw aluminum does. A weekly soapy wash and wipe down goes a very long way with the rims.

If you get behind on them, as I have, you'll need to unmounted the tire and have them refinished, so keep up with it, or be prepared to powder coat them

 

[Death Arrow 007]

Wow... I never would've guessed they'd be uncoated. Seems pretty silly if a rim isn't polished/smooth and shiney. It just has a brushed look to it.

If they're uncoated, then I should be able to get away with a polish after a washing.

 

[Death Arrow 007]

Okay, so, if anyone else can add any advice about the wheels, I'm all eyes. And much thanks to those who've already responded.

Next question -- what does everyone think about the S100 products for the detailing/care of the paint. I see they have a cleaner and an anti-corrosision spray. How well do these work? I already bought a can of the engine brightener but have yet to use it. I was sold after watching one video.

 

[Boog]

Hello Death Arrow 007 and welcome from Virginia. After this head on over to the introduce yourself page and let us know more about your riding history and the great bikes you've had in the past.
For now, since you have mentioned the VTX as a jump off point, treating the R3T is much the same and about the same time to do it. Their are so many polishes out there to choose from and what you've had success in the past with probably work here too. Mother's polish for the rims seem to be the going thing though.
One part in particular that I did not know about is the stepper motor and the Throttle bodies. After each wetting, make sure you hit the moving parts with either WD-40 or Electra-motive. My stepper motor was worn out due to road grime as was the throttle body where the stepper pushes. The throttle bodies cost $2300 to replace or, like I did, I found a used one and cannibalized the parts needed off of it. I pick it up today (in the rain).

I too live in a townhouse and have no garage. I keep the bike covered each night and anytime not riding it. Good luck