Hi Van S Call me old fashioned if you like, but you statement here does send alarm bell ringing . If it`s you using a jet/wash lance at your local car wash then that`s one thing, but I would be extremely careful if it`s the guys at the car wash using a high pressure lance. For one, they probably won`t know which bits are sensitive to high pressure water (electrics,bearings,chain) & two, they may well jet wash the bike from the front through the radiator.. With high pressure water spraying from the front, any pieces of dirt or grit stuck/wedged can be literally blasted between the fine fins of the radiator possibly causing serious damage which won`t if mentioned to triumph if a warranty issue occurs be covered under warranty. if using a jet wash yourself be extra careful around the bits mentioned & keep the lance moving continuously. & lastly, keep it on as low pressure as possible to minimize damage. OMG...Ive got to have a lie down now....bikes @ a car wash??????... The thought of it brings me out in a rash. NOOOOOOOO!!!!!!
Well it was recommended by a local bike dealer, I have to say they were very careful with it. It will probably be the last time I take it to someone else to get it cleaned, If I'm honest with you I thought they done quite a good job of it. And the dealer said they take their bikes there!
When you clean your own bike you get to know of any up coming issues as it`s a good time to visually check things like tyre wear, chain slack & fluid levels.....& it gets you out of the house for a while too. Only a couple of times have I used a jet wash & even then I am so careful that I may as well be using a hosepipe as I am paranoid that I`ll damage something expensive like a radiator or alternator or wheel bearings leave the car wash to ....well...cars Tboy
I believe DozersDad is correct - headers steam off when heavily wetted. Did you per chance put your nose to it and sniff for a scent of glycol (coolant)?
