Do not use cleaners that are not specifically designed for the painted surfaces of motorcycles and automobiles.
They may contain harsh cleaning agents and chemical solvents that can damage metal, painted surfaces and plastic parts of the motorcycle.
Allow the engine and exhaust system to cool.
We recommend not using the high-pressure water jets common in commercial washes.
Note. High-pressure water jets or compressed air may damage some motorcycle parts.
Motorcycle washing
1. Rinse the motorcycle completely with cold water and remove any loose dirt.
2. Wash the motorcycle with cold water and a sponge or soft cloth. Avoid directing the water jet at the muffler outlet or electrical components.
3. Clean the plastic parts of the motorcycle using a cloth or sponge dampened with a mild detergent and water solution.
Gently wipe contaminated surfaces, rinsing generously with clean water. Protect motorcycle surfaces from contact with brake fluid or chemical solvents. They can damage plastic and painted surfaces.
The inner surface of the headlight lens may become cloudy immediately after washing the motorcycle. Moisture condensing on the inner surface of the lens will gradually disappear when the headlight is turned on in high beam mode. When you turn on the headlight, the engine must be running.
4. After cleaning, rinse the motorcycle thoroughly with plenty of clean water. Residues from strong detergents can cause corrosion of metal parts.
5. Wipe down the motorcycle, start the engine and let it run for a few minutes.
6. Before riding a motorcycle, check how the brakes work. It may be necessary to apply several brakes to restore normal brake operation.
Braking performance may temporarily deteriorate immediately after washing the motorcycle. Therefore, be prepared to increase your braking distance to avoid a possible accident.
Paintwork care
After washing your motorcycle, we recommend using commercially available cleaning and polishing sprays or a quality liquid or cream polish as a final maintenance step.
Use only polishing compounds that do not contain abrasives and are intended for use on motorcycles or automobiles. Apply polishing paste or wax according to the instructions on its packaging.
If the surface of the painted parts is damaged or scratched, your authorized Honda dealer will have touch-up paint to match the color of your motorcycle. When purchasing touch-up paint, use your motorcycle's paint code (see here).
Cleaning your motorcycle from road salt
Salt contained in anti-ice products that are sprayed on roads in winter, and sea water can cause corrosion.
Wash your motorcycle as indicated below after riding in such areas.
1. Rinse the motorcycle with clean water.
Do not use warm water. It enhances the effects of salt.
2. Dry the motorcycle and metal surfaces treated with protective wax.
Caring for painted aluminum alloy wheels
Aluminum can corrode after contact with dirt, soil and road salt. Clean your wheels after driving over any of these substances. Use a damp sponge and mild detergent. Avoid using hard brushes, metal sponges, or cleaners containing abrasives or chemicals.
After washing, rinse with plenty of water and wipe dry with a clean cloth.
Retouch any damage to the wheels using repair touch-up paint.