Wheels are the first to collect dust, mud, brake dust, tar and winter de-icers, yet they are often forgotten at wash time. On dirty rims it is hard to spot a crack, a dent or a loose spoke, and the grime slowly eats into the lacquer and metal.
Cleaning the wheels takes just a few simple steps, and it is easiest to do along with washing the whole bike.
What you will need
Important: Brake discs, pads and tyre treads must stay completely free of lubricant: cover them with a cloth while you work or apply the product via a cloth. Do not pressure-wash the wheel bearings.
Step 1
Put the bike on a stand
Ideally wash the bike at a self-service wash bay where dirty water goes to a drain. In a garage, use a drip tray. Put the bike on a stand so the wheels turn freely, and lay out everything you need beforehand.
Step 2
Wet the wheels
Soak the rims with water from a hose or bucket to soften the dirt. Avoid a pressure washer, which can force grease out of the bearings.
After autumn roads or off-road riding, give the clay a few minutes to soften and wet it again.
Step 3
Apply the cleaner
Apply motorcycle wash to the still-wet rims and leave it for 3 to 5 minutes depending on the dirt, without letting it dry in the sun.
Spray black tar spots and stubborn film with WD-40 Multi-Use, keeping it off the brake disc and tyre. If you are doing the wheels of several bikes, WD-40 Trigger Pro is more convenient.
Step 4
Work it with a brush
Go over the rim, between the spokes and around the hub with the wheel brush. Softened dirt lifts easily and soft bristles will not scratch aluminium. A sponge works too. Repeat if the dirt does not shift first time.
Step 5
Rinse and dry
Rinse off the cleaner and dirt generously with clean water. Then dry the rims straight away with soft microfibre to avoid water spots.
Step 6
Protect the metal from corrosion
Spoked wheels are particularly sensitive to moisture: nipples and spokes rust quickly. Aim WD-40 Smart Straw with its thin straw at each nipple to drive water out of the threads. Wipe bare metal and chrome rims with a cloth sprayed with WD-40 Multi-Use and buff to a shine.
Tip: After washing, brake gently a few times at low speed to dry the discs. Check the tyres for cuts and set the pressures while the wheels are clean and everything is easy to see.
What next
Clean the wheels after every off-road ride or trip on treated roads, and at least every two weeks in season. A small WD-40 200 ml is worth carrying to drive moisture out of the spoke nipples after a downpour.
These uses come from the experience of WD-40 users in many countries. Always follow the instructions and warnings on the product label.
More guides in «How to use».