Shield Your Ride: How to Protect Your Motorcycle from Road Salt

Hey there, Riders and Road Warriors!

Winter riding can be a thrilling experience, but with it comes a sneaky nemesis that can wreak havoc on your beloved motorcycle: road salt. While salt is great for melting ice, it’s not so friendly to our two-wheeled companions. Here’s how you can keep your bike safe and sound when the roads are salty.

Understanding the Risk

Road salt, while essential for safe winter driving, can lead to corrosion and rust on your motorcycle. This not only affects the appearance but can also compromise the structural integrity and safety of your bike.

Pre-Ride Preparation

  1. Protective Coating: Before the salt season hits, apply a high-quality anti-corrosion spray or wax to your bike. This forms a protective barrier between the metal and the salt. We strongly recommend ACF50 Protection Spray
  2. Choose a Good Wash: Opt for motorcycle-specific wash products that have corrosion inhibitors.

Post-Ride Care

  1. Wash Regularly: After riding on salted roads, wash your bike as soon as possible. Use warm water to dissolve the salt and a mild detergent to clean it off. Don’t forget those hard-to-reach areas where salt likes to hide.
  2. Dry Thoroughly: Use a microfiber cloth or an air blower to dry your bike completely. Moisture + salt = corrosion.
  3. Lubricate: Salt can strip lubrication. Regularly lubricate the chain, cables, and controls to keep them working smoothly.

Additional Tips

  1. Avoid Puddles: They might contain a higher concentration of salt, especially in areas where road salt is heavily used.
  2. Cover Up: If you’re storing your bike outside, use a good quality, waterproof cover. This can protect your bike from salt in the air and from road spray kicked up by other vehicles.
  3. Regular Inspections: Frequently inspect your bike for any signs of rust or corrosion, especially in areas like the undercarriage, which are more prone to salt damage.
  4. Consider Alternative Transport: On days when salt use is particularly heavy, it might be worth leaving the bike at home and finding another way to travel.

Final Thoughts

While we can’t control the use of road salt, we can certainly take steps to protect our beloved motorcycles from its harmful effects. With a bit of effort and regular care, you can keep your bike in pristine condition, no matter what the winter roads throw at you.

Stay Safe and Ride On!

Your Friends at Chicken Strips UK