Do I really need a stand? Can I use the stuff my wash the cars with to wash my bike?

 

I cleaned mine without a stand.

 

Is washing a bike like washing a car?

 

pretty much

 

Yep, same basic idea as cleaning a car - I've washed mine three times, never used a stand. The next time however I'm going to take the plastics off, wash them separate, let them dry separate, then put them back on the bike. Then I'll get some of the wheel gunk off. Keep in mind the bike is designed to be waterproof but I still don't like SOAKING the inside of my bike so I don't use a lot of pressure with the water, just enough to wash it, then I use a microfiber towel to dry her off.

 

I've never had a stand when I washed mine. A few tips though may help you out much. Take off any high power spray fitting on the hose. High pressure water gets into electronics and washes grease out of critical areas (Axels, swingarm, steering bearings, ect). Be careful cleaning the tires. Wipe off the road meeting surfaces with a wet cloth. Never use tire shine or cleaner on anything but the sidewalls. Never armor all the seat, you will slide right off. Use whatever soap and a wet rag and rinse with water directly from the end of the hose. Make sure to clean and service the chain after washing. A good product Ive used to clean my Ninja 250, and will continue to use on my F4i is Honda's spray cleaner. I forget what it is called. It foams and you can do a quick clean of the whole bike with it. Safe on rubber, glass, plastic, fiberglass and metal.

 

I use my leafblower to dry the bike.
Ride around the block a couple of times, then finish with
a microfiber towel. Works very well.

Thus far, I've never waxed. What do you guys use?
I have been looking at the "Turtle Wax-Ice Claybar".

 

Buffed with optimum poli seal then waxed with Meguiars 26, best wax for the money. I detail as a side job so hopefully will start doing bikes this season if i find enough people.

 

I have heard good things about clay bars. Never waxed a bike though.

 

Wash, clay, wash, buff with polish, wipe off, wax.