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Disinfecting Your Motorcycle And Gear

May. 18 2023 Safety By Windy City Motorcycle Company

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Your motorcycle is a symbol of freedom and power, but it can also host a range of bacteria and other germs if it’s not disinfected regularly. Even if no one else uses it, it’s important to regularly disinfect your motorcycle and your gear.

Supplies

To do this safely and thoroughly, you’ll need a few items and supplies. That includes, but isn’t limited to:

  • A motorcycle-oriented disinfecting agent that can kill most germs without being too abrasive to your bike (your owner’s manual should have recommendations)
  • A motorcycle helmet-oriented disinfecting spray
  • Face mask and goggles to protect your face and eyes from splashes of disinfecting agent
  • Gloves to protect your hands from the disinfecting agent
  • A microfiber cloth or towel

Your Motorcycle

Start by parking your bike on the main stand. Make sure it’s fully cooled down, then give it a good rinse to get rid of any caked-on dirt or other buildup. Next, use the cleaning agent with the microfiber towel and thoroughly wipe down all frequently touched surfaces, like handlebars and any touchscreens. Let these areas dry before you move or turn on your bike.

Your Gear

Next, move on to your helmet. If it has removable pads, take them out and give them a good wash. Then, use your bike helmet disinfecting spray on the helmet and let it air dry, paying special attention to the nose and mouth areas. If you don’t have a cleaner specifically made for helmets and want to see if the cleaner you’ve got will work, test it out on an old helmet. Place a small amount of the agent and let it air dry to see if it will dull or otherwise harm the old helmet’s finish. 

Try to avoid storing your riding gloves in your helmet when you park. This can lead to germ transfer between your gloves and helmet, exposing you to more harmful microbes than necessary. We also recommend a spare pair of gloves so you can wash them without sacrificing the protection they provide.

Riding Habits

When gassing up, try to have a barrier (like a paper towel or disposable gloves) between the nozzle and your gloves. Pack some disinfecting wipes with you for long trips.

Are you in the market for a motorcycle? Windy City Motorcycle Company carries a variety of motorcycles for sale. See our available models online! We proudly serve those in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Chicago Illinois, and Detroit, Michigan.