Triumphrat

09-10-2004

Does anyone have first hand experience of washing a bike using a domestic jet-wash? I've received mixed advice, some people saying a jet-wash will remove grease from bearings, others saying a domestic pump isn't powerful enough to do damage.

Any suggestions?

I wash the bodywork with a sponge very happily, but would like to get the crud off the ugly bits and don't fancy getting myself that dirty :wink: (only joking)

Thanks,
Jeremy

zimtok · 09-10-2004

I have used a jet wash on my bike, but I was very careful not to spray delicate areas with the HIGH PREASURE. I do all my washing at home now.

If my bike is really dirty I use Krud Kutter and soak the bike down and let it soak in. I then spray it down with my garden hose. Tough areas I use a brush I got with a car cleaning kit from Wal-Mart.

tango · 09-10-2004

I use a jet wash in the winter to blast the road salt off the bike,.
just don't direct it at vulnerable areas, like wheel bearings, electrical components and of course the end of the exhaust.

GaryD · 09-10-2004

I would need a better definition of "jet wash". I have a John Deere pressure washer that puts out 2,500 PSI (which is in what I call the small range - 4 hp Honda gasoline engine). I do not use it on my bike. However, I do use it on my ATV, lawn tractor, utility tractor, etc (things that get really nasty or muddy, my bike doesn't), but always on a fan spray and never closer than 18" away when directed at engine or suspension parts. Anything with much more pressure or that heats water would definitely be a hazard to seals.

vigneron · 09-24-2004

I use a domestic jet wash whenever I wash my bike. Which isn't very often, I prefer riding it.