A Harley is special. It’s not just any bike; it’s not even just a great bike, a Harley is family. An avid rider is most likely to describe a Harley Davison motorcycle as a companion, a best friend or even a soul mate.
So do you know how to wash a Harley smartly? Washing your Harley, making sure it’s clean, polished and shiny will only enhance your experience and enjoyment of your bike and will in many ways protect its longevity. But does a special motorcycle like a Harley require a special attention in its cleaning or can it be washed like any other bike or automobile through a commercial car wash? The answer is NO.
To put a Harley through the regular automobile wash; through torrents of forceful water jets and uncompromising and stubborn brushes scathing the surface of a shiny Harley, is most likely to put a Harley lover at risk of nervous breakdown. It is of such importance to a Harley owner to ensure the welfare of his bike by providing the best cleaning practice for it. A Harley needs attention, respect, appreciation and care; it needs pampering.
Now, Take A Look On The Preparation
Do not start cleaning your bike straight off a ride. Make sure the bike has not been ridden for a bit and the engine has cooled down. Splashing cold water on a hot or running engine could be damaging to the bike.
Also, make sure your bike is not parked right under the Sun; best is to clean your Harley in a shaded area. A bike dying in the Sun make water evaporate from the bike’s surface in differential amounts and can leave water spots on your bike.
ENSURE THAT YOU KEEP THE FOLLOWING ITEMS HANDY FOR USE BEFORE YOU BEGIN THE PROCESS OF GIVING YOUR HARLEY A WASH
A Microfiber Wash Mitt
Wheel & spoke brush
2 Water Buckets
Chamois
Tooth Brush
Rubber Gloves
Engine Degreaser
Long Arm Brush
Chain Lubricant
HOG Blaster Motorcycle dryer
Harley Davidson Bug Remover
Harley Davidson Wheel & Tyre Cleaner
Harley Davidson Sunwash bike Soap
Harley Davidson Glaze Polish & Sealant
Bestseller No. 1
![WD-40 Specialist Roller Chain Non-Fling Lubricant, 10 OZ [6-Pack]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51xE6r9vOmL._SL160_.jpg)
WD-40 Specialist Roller Chain Non-Fling Lubricant, 10 OZ [6-Pack]
- Displaces contaminants and trapped moisture
- Penetrates into inner chain links, pins, bushings and rollers to protect chain against rust and breakage
- Advanced ceramic reinforced formula repels dirt and helps keep the lubricant from flinging off at high RPM
- Provides long-lasting lubrication on chain and sprockets. Safe on O-Ring chains
- WD-40 Brand believes in creating high-quality products that will not fail in extreme conditions. Professionals rely on WD-40 SPECIALIST to get the job done right!
Bestseller No. 2
DuPont Teflon Chain-Saver Dry Self-Cleaning Lubricant, 11-Ounce
- No fling-off and O-Ring Safe
- Dirt-resistant dry lubricant
- Contains Teflon and Moly for wear protection
- Water resistant and Non-staining
Bestseller No. 3
Finish Line 1-Step Bicycle Chain Cleaner & Lubricant 4oz Squeeze Bottle
- One 4-ounce squeeze bottler of 1-Step wet-style cleaner an lubricant
- Fast and easy--penetrates and flushes old lube and contaminants out and lubricates with each new application
- Whenever chain is dry or dirty, just apply and you're ready to go ride
- Provides maximum rust protection--perfect lube for occasional cyclists and bikes often put into storage
- Engineered for commuters and recreational cyclists who seek a quick one-step “clean and lube’ formulation
Bestseller No. 4
Lucas Oil 10393 Chain Lube Aerosol - 11 Ounce
- Fit type: Vehicle Specific
- Package Dimensions: 18.796 H x 6.35 L x 6.604 W (centimetres)
- Package Weight: 0.408 kilograms
- Country of Origin : United States
Bestseller No. 5
Finish Line DRY Teflon Bicycle Chain Lube, 4-Ounce Drip Squeeze Bottle
- Especailly recommended for riding on or off-road in dry, dirty, dusty environments, yet it holds up well in moderately wet conditions
- DRY Lube can also be used on derailleurs, shifters, cables, and brake pivot points
- Finish Line's DRY Lube provides optimum drivetrain efficiency without attracting an excessive amount of abrasive contaminants
Bestseller No. 7
WD-40 Specialist Bike Chain Lube, 6 OZ
- Apply this lubricant to your bike chain for high-performing lubrication for dry, wet, or varying conditions. The fast and easy-to-use formula helps prevent squeaks and extends the life of your chain
- This formula contains corrosion inhibitors for long-term optimal chain performance
- Prevents friction damage and helps extend chain life for your bike. The no-wax formula will not build up inside chain links and drivetrain. Ride with chains you can trust in both dry and wet conditions
- Our entire product line has undergone extensive testing at the hands of internal and 3rd party scientists, bicycle retailers, and professional mechanics. Experience the difference of a professional-grade formula
- Community approved. WD-40 BIKE sets up hands-on wash stations at local bike events around the globe. They visit and set up shop while providing riders of all levels an opportunity to engage with each product for essential bike maintenance
SaleBestseller No. 8
Lucas Oil Chain Lube 11.00 oz Aerosol Case of 12 P/N 10393-12
- Lucas Oil Chain Lube 11.00 oz Aerosol Case of 12 P/N 10393-12
Bestseller No. 9
Muc Off Dry Chain Lube, 120 Milliliters - Biodegradable Bike Chain Lubricant Suitable for All Types of Bike - Formulated for Dry Weather Conditions
- ULTRA-DURABLE: Muc-Off Bio Dry Lube is an ultra-durable bike chain lube that penetrates deep to provide long-lasting lubrication.
- REDUCES FRICTION: Advanced formula reduces friction and energy consumption to ensure silky-smooth gear shifts.
- IDEAL FOR DRY WEATHER: Our Bio Dry Chain Lube uses a wax-based formula to protect against contaminants in dry and dusty conditions.
- BIODEGRADABLE: Fully biodegradable chain lubricant that is just as friendly on the environment as it is on your ride.
- SUITABLE FOR ALL BIKES: Whether you prefer to hit the road or shred the trails on your MTB, Muc-Off Bio Dry Lube is the perfect choice for protecting your bike’s chain.
SaleBestseller No. 10
Bel-Ray Super Clean Chain Lube - 400ml. Aerosol 99470-A400W
- Product type :POWERSPORTS VEHICLE PART
Bestseller No. 11
Quicksilver 8M0130603 Off-Road Motorcycle Chain Lube, 11.5 Oz.
- PERFORMANCE – Provides superior anti-wear and shock protection for extended chain and sprocket life
- PROTECTION – Repels water and dirt contamination
- PEACE OF MIND – Excellent sealing capabilities protecting the O-rings
- HARSH CONDITIONS – Preforms in all-weather, even in extreme conditions
- FITS EVERYTHING – Approved for O-ring chains
Bestseller No. 12
Maxima 77920 Synthetic Chain Guard - 14 oz. Aerosol
- Maxima Chain Guard is an advanced chain lubricant specifically formulated for today's on and off road, high performance motorcycle chains
Bestseller No. 13
Schaeffer Manufacturing Co. 0227-011 Moly Roller Chain Lube, 13 oz. Aerosol Can (Pack of 12)
- Eliminates chain stick/slip motion
- Powerful protection against rust and corrosion
- Quiets noisy chains
- O-ring safe: will not swell or shrink O-rings
- Quickly produces flexible chain action
SaleBestseller No. 14
White Lightning 2-in-1 Bike Care 4 oz Lubricant and Degreaser (W20040102)
- fast and easy to use, 2-in-1 lubricates and degreases your chain and gears in one easy step!
- tough on grit and grime, 2-in-1 leaves behind a premium lubrication as it works.
- provides extra protection to bicycle components, especially in salty or humid climates.
- Fit type: Universal Fit
Bestseller No. 15
MOTUL 109767 Motorcycle Chain Clean Lube Kit C1 C2 Complete MC Care System Road Street
- All-in-one package to clean and maintain your chain
- Includes chain clean, chain lube road, chain brush, motul gloves and decal
- C1 Chain Clean is perfect for removing residue, sand, dirt, and oil.
- C2 Chain Lube Road is a product of MOTUL's racing history, protecting your chain while reducing drag.
- MOTUL gloves and chain brush help remove deposits without creating a mess.
SaleBestseller No. 16
Maxima 74920 Chain Wax - 13.5 oz. Aerosol
- Maxima Chain Wax is a superior power spray lubricant designed for all chain care needs
- It's special Para-Film formula creates a waxy film similar to Cosmoline, offering long term protection especially in water and high humidity environments
- Maxima Chain Wax is formulated with heavy duty, anti-wear, and extreme pressure additives that provide superior lubrication for all chains, cables, and sprockets
- Maxima Chain Wax penetrates deeply, lubricating non accessible areas, reducing chain stretch and wear
- Chain Wax is simply the best choice for all chain and cable care needs
SaleBestseller No. 17
STA-BIL SPORT Bike Chain Cleaner & Lubricant - Prevents Rust on Chains, Cables, and Derailleurs, Premium Lubricant, Easy to Apply, Preserves Bike Chains, 8oz (22406) , Black
- PREVENTS RUST – STA-BIL SPORT Bike Chain Cleaner & Lubricant keeps bikes performing like new by penetrating deep into a bike’s chain, cables, and derailleurs. This easy-to-apply product works by loosening grime and reducing friction to drastically improve drivetrain performance in the most convenient way possible
- PREMIUM LUBRICANT – Following application, this biodegradable product will proactively prevent rust from building on treated areas, and it limits corrosion build-up. If your bike squeaks or squeals the next time you go for a ride, be sure to use STA-BIL SPORT Bike Chain Cleaner & Lubricant
- EASY APPLICATION – This cleaning system is all you need to remove old dirt and foreign substances from the chain and gears to enhance riding performance and extend your bike’s life
- DIRECTIONS – Start by removing dirt and grime from your bicycle’s chain with a clean rag. After prepping your chain, apply generously while pedaling backward, and wipe chain clean with a rag. Leaves a thin, protective lube that resists dirt, grit, and rust. For dirtier chains, apply, and wipe chain a second time
- All STA-BIL branded products are good for use up to 2 years after the bottle was opened. Be sure to mark the date you opened the bottle on the back of your package!
SaleBestseller No. 18
Pro Gold Products ProGold ProLink Chain Lube, 4oz
- Sheds dirt, mud and abrasives
- Repels moisture and reduces oxidation/corrosion
- Desperses water and resists wash-off
- Will not build up or get tacky
- Sheds dirt, mud and abrasives
Bestseller No. 19
Muc-Off Dry Motorcycle Chain Lube, 13.5 fl oz - Motorcycle Chain Lubricant, Chain Wax for Dry Conditions - Motorcycle Chain Oil for On and Off-Road
- ULTRA-DURABLE: Muc-Off Dry Lube is a high performance motorcycle lube that penetrates deep to provide long-lasting lubrication. Our synthetic formulation offers maximum protection so that you can double down on distance with a fully-protected chain.
Bestseller No. 20
WD-40 Specialist Bike Wet Chain Lube, 4 OZ
- Keep rolling under extreme conditions with this Wet Lube formula. Designed for wet, muddy & extreme conditions, it provides a durable coating that helps repel water and mud and helps protect your chain to extend its life
- The formulation prevents friction damage and helps extend chain life for your bike. The no-wax formula will not build up inside chain links and the drivetrain. Keep riding with chains you can trust in the wettest conditions
- They say a clean bike is a fast bike. WD-40 BIKE has something to help every type of bike and rider. From beginners to pro athletes, WD-40 BIKE products are there to keep your gears clean and your wheels spinning
- WD-40 BIKE products have undergone extensive testing at the hands of internal and 3rd party scientists, bicycle retailers, and professional mechanics. Experience the difference of a professional-grade formula
- Community approved. WD-40 BIKE sets up hands-on wash stations at local bike events around the globe. They visit and set up shop while providing riders of all levels an opportunity to engage with each product for essential bike maintenance
- Displaces contaminants and trapped moisture
- Penetrates into inner chain links, pins, bushings and rollers to protect chain against rust and breakage
- Advanced ceramic reinforced formula repels dirt and helps keep the lubricant from flinging off at high RPM
- Provides long-lasting lubrication on chain and sprockets. Safe on O-Ring chains
- WD-40 Brand believes in creating high-quality products that will not fail in extreme conditions. Professionals rely on WD-40 SPECIALIST to get the job done right!
- No fling-off and O-Ring Safe
- Dirt-resistant dry lubricant
- Contains Teflon and Moly for wear protection
- Water resistant and Non-staining
- One 4-ounce squeeze bottler of 1-Step wet-style cleaner an lubricant
- Fast and easy--penetrates and flushes old lube and contaminants out and lubricates with each new application
- Whenever chain is dry or dirty, just apply and you're ready to go ride
- Provides maximum rust protection--perfect lube for occasional cyclists and bikes often put into storage
- Engineered for commuters and recreational cyclists who seek a quick one-step “clean and lube’ formulation
- Fit type: Vehicle Specific
- Package Dimensions: 18.796 H x 6.35 L x 6.604 W (centimetres)
- Package Weight: 0.408 kilograms
- Country of Origin : United States
- Especailly recommended for riding on or off-road in dry, dirty, dusty environments, yet it holds up well in moderately wet conditions
- DRY Lube can also be used on derailleurs, shifters, cables, and brake pivot points
- Finish Line's DRY Lube provides optimum drivetrain efficiency without attracting an excessive amount of abrasive contaminants
- Apply this lubricant to your bike chain for high-performing lubrication for dry, wet, or varying conditions. The fast and easy-to-use formula helps prevent squeaks and extends the life of your chain
- This formula contains corrosion inhibitors for long-term optimal chain performance
- Prevents friction damage and helps extend chain life for your bike. The no-wax formula will not build up inside chain links and drivetrain. Ride with chains you can trust in both dry and wet conditions
- Our entire product line has undergone extensive testing at the hands of internal and 3rd party scientists, bicycle retailers, and professional mechanics. Experience the difference of a professional-grade formula
- Community approved. WD-40 BIKE sets up hands-on wash stations at local bike events around the globe. They visit and set up shop while providing riders of all levels an opportunity to engage with each product for essential bike maintenance
- Lucas Oil Chain Lube 11.00 oz Aerosol Case of 12 P/N 10393-12
- ULTRA-DURABLE: Muc-Off Bio Dry Lube is an ultra-durable bike chain lube that penetrates deep to provide long-lasting lubrication.
- REDUCES FRICTION: Advanced formula reduces friction and energy consumption to ensure silky-smooth gear shifts.
- IDEAL FOR DRY WEATHER: Our Bio Dry Chain Lube uses a wax-based formula to protect against contaminants in dry and dusty conditions.
- BIODEGRADABLE: Fully biodegradable chain lubricant that is just as friendly on the environment as it is on your ride.
- SUITABLE FOR ALL BIKES: Whether you prefer to hit the road or shred the trails on your MTB, Muc-Off Bio Dry Lube is the perfect choice for protecting your bike’s chain.
- Product type :POWERSPORTS VEHICLE PART
- PERFORMANCE – Provides superior anti-wear and shock protection for extended chain and sprocket life
- PROTECTION – Repels water and dirt contamination
- PEACE OF MIND – Excellent sealing capabilities protecting the O-rings
- HARSH CONDITIONS – Preforms in all-weather, even in extreme conditions
- FITS EVERYTHING – Approved for O-ring chains
- Maxima Chain Guard is an advanced chain lubricant specifically formulated for today's on and off road, high performance motorcycle chains
- Eliminates chain stick/slip motion
- Powerful protection against rust and corrosion
- Quiets noisy chains
- O-ring safe: will not swell or shrink O-rings
- Quickly produces flexible chain action
- fast and easy to use, 2-in-1 lubricates and degreases your chain and gears in one easy step!
- tough on grit and grime, 2-in-1 leaves behind a premium lubrication as it works.
- provides extra protection to bicycle components, especially in salty or humid climates.
- Fit type: Universal Fit
- All-in-one package to clean and maintain your chain
- Includes chain clean, chain lube road, chain brush, motul gloves and decal
- C1 Chain Clean is perfect for removing residue, sand, dirt, and oil.
- C2 Chain Lube Road is a product of MOTUL's racing history, protecting your chain while reducing drag.
- MOTUL gloves and chain brush help remove deposits without creating a mess.
- Maxima Chain Wax is a superior power spray lubricant designed for all chain care needs
- It's special Para-Film formula creates a waxy film similar to Cosmoline, offering long term protection especially in water and high humidity environments
- Maxima Chain Wax is formulated with heavy duty, anti-wear, and extreme pressure additives that provide superior lubrication for all chains, cables, and sprockets
- Maxima Chain Wax penetrates deeply, lubricating non accessible areas, reducing chain stretch and wear
- Chain Wax is simply the best choice for all chain and cable care needs
- PREVENTS RUST – STA-BIL SPORT Bike Chain Cleaner & Lubricant keeps bikes performing like new by penetrating deep into a bike’s chain, cables, and derailleurs. This easy-to-apply product works by loosening grime and reducing friction to drastically improve drivetrain performance in the most convenient way possible
- PREMIUM LUBRICANT – Following application, this biodegradable product will proactively prevent rust from building on treated areas, and it limits corrosion build-up. If your bike squeaks or squeals the next time you go for a ride, be sure to use STA-BIL SPORT Bike Chain Cleaner & Lubricant
- EASY APPLICATION – This cleaning system is all you need to remove old dirt and foreign substances from the chain and gears to enhance riding performance and extend your bike’s life
- DIRECTIONS – Start by removing dirt and grime from your bicycle’s chain with a clean rag. After prepping your chain, apply generously while pedaling backward, and wipe chain clean with a rag. Leaves a thin, protective lube that resists dirt, grit, and rust. For dirtier chains, apply, and wipe chain a second time
- All STA-BIL branded products are good for use up to 2 years after the bottle was opened. Be sure to mark the date you opened the bottle on the back of your package!
- Sheds dirt, mud and abrasives
- Repels moisture and reduces oxidation/corrosion
- Desperses water and resists wash-off
- Will not build up or get tacky
- Sheds dirt, mud and abrasives
- ULTRA-DURABLE: Muc-Off Dry Lube is a high performance motorcycle lube that penetrates deep to provide long-lasting lubrication. Our synthetic formulation offers maximum protection so that you can double down on distance with a fully-protected chain.
- Keep rolling under extreme conditions with this Wet Lube formula. Designed for wet, muddy & extreme conditions, it provides a durable coating that helps repel water and mud and helps protect your chain to extend its life
- The formulation prevents friction damage and helps extend chain life for your bike. The no-wax formula will not build up inside chain links and the drivetrain. Keep riding with chains you can trust in the wettest conditions
- They say a clean bike is a fast bike. WD-40 BIKE has something to help every type of bike and rider. From beginners to pro athletes, WD-40 BIKE products are there to keep your gears clean and your wheels spinning
- WD-40 BIKE products have undergone extensive testing at the hands of internal and 3rd party scientists, bicycle retailers, and professional mechanics. Experience the difference of a professional-grade formula
- Community approved. WD-40 BIKE sets up hands-on wash stations at local bike events around the globe. They visit and set up shop while providing riders of all levels an opportunity to engage with each product for essential bike maintenance
4 Easy Steps To Help You Wash Your Harley Quickly
Now that we have made ample preparation, let the ritual of cleaning and shining your favourite automotive begin. It is imperative that you clean your Harley with care and with precision, which if not done, you could inadvertently damage your Harley.
The complete process of cleaning and washing the Harley has 4 steps and must taken chronologically for most spectacular results.
STEP 1. WASHING YOUR HARLEY
Before the actual washing of your Harley begins, you would want to micro clean your bike for areas that are difficult to clean just through washing. A thorough cleaning of the areas is essential to the looks and life of the bike.
____ The Front ____
The front fender and the headlight tend to retain a lot of bugs that have flown in and squashed on your motorcycle. The bugs stick to the bike’s body even through washings, so it is important to clean them using a clean piece of cloth with a Bug Remover spray. Harley Davidson’s Bug Remover is said to do the job best, you may want to check it out here:
____ The Nooks ____
The Swing arm, exhaust pipes, cylinders and the under-seat suspensions are some of the areas you would need to crane both your neck and arm to reach. With the help of a piece of cloth you and some engine degreaser will help in ensuring that you clean the exhaust arm which often gets dirty due to the chain lube. One can access the hard to reach spots like the cylinders and the suspensions under the seat, by the help of a tooth brush with a drop of degreaser.
____ The Wheels ____
Wheels tend to get grimy due to the lubricant off the chain along with countless other factors of the road. Cleaning a wheel is not all the easy and requires some arm contortion for best results. Start by spraying the Harley Tyre and Wheel Cleaner on all nooks and angles of the wheel and gently wipe of the excess liquid using a cotton rag. Use a plastic brush to reach into the cranny of the wheels and remove any stubborn piece of grime or dirt. Give some time to the Tyre and wheel cleaner to settle before it can be hosed off.
For a detailed run down of cleaning the wheels, you may take a look at this article.
STEP 2. WASHING THE BODY
To thoroughly wash your Harley, make sure to keep ready 2 buckets ready; one with water and the other with the Harley Sunwash bike soap and water. Make sure the wash cloth or sponge is clean and does not have any dust particles on it.
First step is to rinse the bike entirely with clean water from the bottom up. Soak your wash mitt in the Sunwash soap bucket and then wash the whole body of your Harley, starting from the top and working it all the way down.
Once your Harley is all wet and spongy with the soap, now start rinsing the soap off from the bottom to top. Ensure that the soap should be entirely rinsed off the nooks and crannies of your bike. You may use your wash mitt to ensure detailing of the engine fins and such other tight spots, only take care that the you don’t wet the engine, chain or other moving parts of the bike too much.
A thorough read of the washing of the Harley could be found here.
STEP 3. DRYING THE BIKE
A Chamois is best used to soak the moisture evenly without leaving any streaks or spots on the bike’s body. A HOG Blaster Motorcycle dryer is the best to dry the intricate parts of the bikes which are not easily accessible. Complete drying of the water from all parts is very important as otherwise it can cause corrosion. Go for a quick and fast ride to make sure that the whole of the motorcycle is completely aired and no water or moisture may be allowed to lodge anywhere on the bike.
STEP 4. POLISHING THE HOG
A Harley looks its best when it shines and for this you need to ensure that the bike is well polished and Sealed. Also, a well-polished Harley repels dirt and bugs, so you must ensure you go the extra mile and polish your motorcycle’s paint work. Using Harley Glaze polish & sealant with a micro fibre or a soft cloth, apply the polish in straight lines on the bike’s body. Leave the polish on for a few minutes and then clean off with a clean cloth.
To know just how to polish your bike like a pro, watch this video:
Bask In The Glory
So there you are, you have successfully completed washing and cleaning your Harley in depth and detail. You will now be able to enjoy the glorious outcome of your toils; a tuned up and renewed beast with a marvellous sparkle of beauty and magnificence.
Harley Davison’s are tremendous machines and it demands nothing less than an owner who loves it and is pride to possess it. After all, if you own a lion, it must roar.
If you liked our article on how to wash a Harley, feel free to share it! If you have secret tips that get your Harley cleaned up faster than the ones we have here, we’d love to hear them in the comments. Thanks for reading, and keep it vertical.
