Forums > Maintenance > Water Spots/Stains

 

No doubt that Ron Popeil wishes he had invented this stuff.  S100 motorcycle cleaner.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Another sunrise, These bright and crystal moments, Crow flies overhead.

My first reaction to your question was akin to the beer ad where the guy comes storming in "$15 for a hamburger, you've gotta be kidding!  You ain't  living the high life !"  and proceeds to commandeer the Miller beer.

My second reaction is that you really ought to have the water tested, what the hell is in it?

As to the spots, try some Lime-away or similar, in an inconspicuous spot, and rinse thoroughly.  Vinegar sometimes works too.  Flat-hand it, don't use a lot of pressure with just a fingertip.

Congrats on the new bike!

 

 

I had this problem in AZ.  You must have some very high mineral content (usually calcium) in your water to create the spotting.  Do you have a water softener or water filtering system installed for your household use?  If so, only use the filtered household softwater to wash the bike, and try a 50/50 white vinegar/soft water solution to cut the mineral spotting.  Start on the mirror to begin with.  If the 50% vinegar doesn't cut the mineral spotting, move up to 100 % vinegar, like Larry suggests.  Vinegar shouldn't cause paint to discolor, but I'd immediately wash with soapy soft water and rinse afterwards just to be safe.  I haven't tried the S-100 cleaner, but their wax is outstanding, so the cleaner is doubtless good as well. 

 

 

I think the S100 product line was actually created by aliens with their advanced technology, and quietly introduced to us . . . you know, as a little gift from the new guys.

C

 

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Another sunrise, These bright and crystal moments, Crow flies overhead.

If the above and the S100 doesn't work, which I'm sure it will, try Plexus polish on the plastic body parts, Novus polish for the clear windscreen, and GSR (glass stain remover) for the glass mirrors.  If this doesn't work, quit drinking the water!

Robo

I ordered some of this S100 to try out.  Charlie, I got some of their wheel cleaner, also.  You ever used it?

Clearly the bike is ruined. I'm in southern CA, but can meet you halfway and pick it up. Sorry for your loss.

 

 

Keep in mind that whatever hard water stains left behind by the sprinklers are only sitting on the clear coat. Use the lightest possible cleaning product you can find. And, as already suggested, use very light pressure when rubbing/washing. Congrats in the bike.

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Scott (AKA GSlite. Isn't there some way to get your username changed?)

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Another sunrise, These bright and crystal moments, Crow flies overhead.

Hey C.,

Yeah, I recall the posts on washing off the mojo.  I don't wash my bike often, either.  It went to MotoGP in Indy dirty, but I washed it special just for you guys for the Barber gathering.  I clean the wheels when I use the No Mar to change tires.  I also use a gas powered leaf blower to dry my bike, it works great.  Last 2 times though, the exhaust went from the garage (connected to the basement) to the smoke detector and set them off in the entire house.  I couldn't hear them over the engine noise with ear plugs in.  Boy, that pisses off my wife.  Especially after the SECOND time!

You know, I'm pretty sure the RT, LT, and KGT require washing 2x per year or BMW voids your warranty.  Pretty boys and their tourers....

Robo

You might want to try ALL KLEER, made by "Black Lab Corp.".  I love the stuff.  It leaves a finish like that of a freshly waxed car, where water just beads-up and rolls away   I use it on my faceshield & goggles, too.  Here's the link:

http://www.blacklabcorp.com/all-kleer.htm

Dave

I use S100. It works well, but you have to use lots of rinse water or it will leave a dull film. To remove water spots, try using vinegar as suggested above. If that doesn't help, use a car wash solution and warm water. Follow the wash with a good cleaner/polish like Meguiar's. 

This last suggestion might sound strange, but use Pledge furniture polish. Lots of show car/bike guys use it as a detailer. It cleans well and leaves one of the best shines you'll ever see. I use it on my bikes, helmet visor and Corvette. It really works and smells nice, too.

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1994 K1100RS & 2005 Harley Electra Glide

Yeah, those waterspots really suck !

 

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Thomas - I'll worry about assisted living later... IBA# 28109 '07 R1200GS Adventure

 

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Yeah, those waterspots really suck !

 

Now that's an OFF-ROAD BIKE!!!!!  It's got character & I love it!

Dave

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