Is rust slowly spreading on the metal surfaces of your motorcycle? Is the metal surface that once gleamed under the sun slowly losing its shine? And to add to your misery, the weather conditions in India hastens the process. We understand how heartbreaking that can be. But what if we told you we could slow down this process?
We can guide you on how to care for your motorcycle. Our care tips are guaranteed to keep your bike looking and feeling brand new for longer.
Before we move on to the care tips let’s try to understand how rust forms. This will help you better care for your motorcycle.
You might be already familiar with the fact that rust is a byproduct of oxidation. Let’s break this down.
Suppose your motorcycle is left out in the open. This means the metal components like the exhaust system, handlebars, fuel tank, crash bars, and engine components are exposed to the weather conditions. The iron present in these surfaces will react with oxygen (in the air) and water (from rain or humidity). This process is called oxidisation and the result of this chemical reaction is the rust that builds up on your bike. The problem is that once the rust begins to form, it can quickly spread across the metal surface. In addition to this, there are other factors that can accelerate the rusting process.
Salt can accelerate the process of oxidation and hence speed up the spread of rust. Riding in coastal regions or other salty atmospheres can thus harm your bike. To hinder this, wash your bike thoroughly after your ride. You can use cleaning sprays for optimal results. You can also apply a protective wax or corrosion protection spray to create a protective barrier.
Think about all the mud, dirt, and debris that cling to your motorcycle. This is what we call road grime and it is one of the most common factors that contribute to the formation of rust. The grime in your bike, if left as such will absorb moisture. As we have already discussed, moisture leads to rust formation. Thus, the build-up of grime can accelerate the spread of rust. However, grime can be removed easily if you take regular care of your bike. Clean your bike regularly to remove any debris and prevent the buildup of grime.
The paint job of your motorcycle is not there for mere aesthetics. The paint and chrome act as protective coatings that protect your prized possession from rust. With time, the paint and chrome layer can fade and leave the metal parts exposed to moisture and air. This will result in the formation of rust. Take care not to use cleaning agents that harm these protective coatings, instead, you can use cleaning sprays made especially for motorcycles from Addinol.
This one’s obvious. To keep your bike in optimal condition at all times, it is important to regularly care for your bike. Negligence on your part can have serious consequences. So make sure to care for your bike. Refrain from using abrasives that could damage the paint and chrome layers. For instance, do not use cleaning agents like detergents to clean your bike, only use cleaning products that are specifically made for bikes. You should also take care to regularly clean your bike and maintain the protective coatings.
Every automobile is susceptible to rusting, but motorcycles are arguably the most vulnerable among them. This is because of their open design which constantly exposes it to extreme weather conditions. But how bad is rust for your bike?
It is obvious that rust can diminish the aesthetic charm of your motorcycle and make it look old. But more importantly, it weakens the structure and affects the mechanical functionality of the bike. In the long run, rust can also bring down the resale value of your motorcycle. Apart from these, there are many other consequences of rusting. Let’s list them one by one:
Getting rid of rust once it starts to spread is no mean task. But you can prevent the formation of rust by taking proactive steps to care for your motorcycle. Since we have already discussed the factors that lead to rusting, all you have to do is prevent or hinder those factors as much as possible. Let’s take a look at how to do that:
As we already mentioned, rust forms due to the reaction between iron, oxygen, and water. So the first thing you need to do is limit the exposure to these elements. To achieve this do the following:
We already talked about how salt can accelerate rusting. You can prevent this by:
Road grime can retain moisture and accelerate rust formation. To prevent the accumulation of grime follow these care tips:
Don’t skimp on protective coatings. These coatings are essential for your bike’s protection. If your motorcycle is already equipped with protective coatings, the next thing to do is to ensure its maintenance:
The final tip is for you to consistently care for your bike. Occasional cleaning won’t cut it. Regular upkeep is the only way to prevent rust and maintain the longevity of your bike. Dedicate time to check for any signs of rust and address them promptly. Consistency in maintenance will not only keep your bike looking new but also ensure its optimal performance and safety.
You can prevent your bike from rusting by following these steps:
You can remove rust from your bike by wiping it with a cloth soaked in vinegar. You could also use a commercial rust remover for better results. Once you have removed existing rust, you can apply any of the anti-corrosion oils available in the market.
Rust is a byproduct of oxidation, which occurs when iron in the metal components of your motorcycle reacts with oxygen from the air and water from rain or humidity. This reaction leads to the formation of rust, which can rapidly spread across exposed metal surfaces.
To remove rust from a bicycle chain follow these steps:
A bike rusts in the rain for the following reasons:
Rust on your motorcycle is more than just an aesthetic concern as it can affect performance, safety, and resale value. However, by understanding the factors that contribute to rust you can take proactive steps to prevent rust formation. Regular maintenance, including thorough cleaning, drying, and applying protective coatings like anti-corrosion oils, is crucial. Additionally, consistent care and attention to your bike’s condition will not only preserve its appearance but also ensure its longevity. Remember, a well-cared-for bike is a reliable bike, so commit to giving your motorcycle the attention it deserves!