paraffin´s (kerosine) the only man for the job! I use it on wheels(but not tyres, and nowhere near brake pads, but it washes away easily), chain and sprockets, road tar, etc, after that its any car shampoo, and when its dry a quick spray of WD40 or ACF50 and a good polish down. Mr. proper (or any ammoniac) used semi neat (10-25% warm water) will lift any stubborn bugs, though rinse it immediately. When I had a spoke type wheel I used to polish the rims/hubs with motor/lubricating oil, applied thinly with a cloth, which makes lifting the next batch of crud easier and keeps the rust down. hope this helps
