AFRICA TWIN

Caring for Your Vehicle

Washing

Allow the engine, muffler, brakes, and other high-temperature parts to cool before washing.

  • Rinse your vehicle thoroughly using a low pressure garden hose to remove loose dirt.
  • If necessary, use a sponge or a soft towel with mild cleaner to remove road grime.
  • Clean the windscreen, headlight lens, panels, and other plastic components with extra care to avoid scratching them. Avoid directing water into the air cleaner, muffler, and electrical parts.
  • Thoroughly rinse your vehicle with plenty of clean water and dry with a soft, clean cloth.
  • After the vehicle dries, lubricate any moving parts.
  • Make sure that no lubricant spills onto the brakes or tyres. Brake discs, pads, drum or shoes contaminated with oil will suffer greatly reduced braking effectiveness and can lead to a crash.
  • Lubricate the drive chain immediately after washing and drying the vehicle.
  • Apply a coat of wax to prevent corrosion.
  • Avoid products that contain harsh detergents or chemical solvents. These can damage the metal, paint, and plastic on your vehicle.

    • Keep the wax clear of the tyres and brakes.

  • If your vehicle has any mat painted parts, do not apply a coat of wax to the mat painted surface.

    • Washing Precautions

    Follow these guidelines when washing:

  • Do not use high-pressure washers:
  • High-pressure water cleaners can damage moving parts and electrical parts, rendering them inoperable.
  • Water in the air intake can be drawn into the throttle body and/or enter the air cleaner.
  • Do not direct water at the muffler:
  • Water in the muffler can prevent starting and causes rust in the muffler.
  • Dry the brakes:
  • Water adversely affects braking effectiveness. After washing, apply the brakes intermittently at low speed to help dry them.
  • Do not direct water under the seat:
  • Water in the under seat compartment can damage your documents and other belongings.
  • Do not direct water at the air cleaner:
  • Water in the air cleaner can prevent the engine from starting.
  • Do not direct water near the headlight:
  • The headlight's inside lens may fog temporarily after washing or while riding in the rain. This does not impact the headlight function.

    • However, if you see a large amount of water or ice accumulated inside the lens(es), have your vehicle inspected by your dealer.

  • Do not use wax or polishing compounds on mat painted surfaces:
  • Use a soft cloth or sponge, plenty of water, and a mild detergent to clean mat painted surfaces. Dry with a soft clean cloth.

    • Recommended topic(s)

  • Windscreen
  • Exhaust Pipe and Muffler
  • Panels