Why Wax Your Bike?

Why Wax Your Bike?

The multi-layered finish on modern motorcycles, from the primer through the top (clear) coat, is only .006 to .008 of an inch thick. Regardless of how fine the finish is now, it will deteriorate and dull. Radiant and ultraviolet energy, acid rain, salt, atmospheric pollution, insect fluids, and bird droppings wage a constant war on your bike's finish. Waxing provides an easily renewable transparent barrier between the finish and a hostile environment.

Waxing also makes your bike, new or old, look better. Quality waxes now combine enriching oils that "wet" the surface with protective formulas of Brazilian Carnauba or modern polymers for a high gloss shine. This brings us to the subject of selecting a wax. Waxes can be made from a natural wax, usually Brazilian Carnauba, or synthetically made of polymers and acrylic resins. In choosing a wax, here are some things to consider:

Carnauba Waxes
Carnauba comes from the fronds of the "Tree of life" (Copernica Cerifera) native to Brazil. It is nature's hardest, purest, and most transparent wax. Carnauba waxes tend to produce a deeper, darker, richer shine that is often described as "three-dimensional". Many enthusiasts and show-bike owners prefer the shine of Carnauba waxes, especially on black, red and other dark colors. Carnauba waxes bead water nicely, absorb the acid content in rain and hide minor swirls in the paint.

On the minus side, Carnauba waxes are not as durable as synthetic waxes. Depending on your climate, they typically last up to 90 days. There is little if any difference between paste Carnauba waxes and liquid Carnauba waxes. They all spread to the same thickness. Some Carnauba waxes can be more difficult to apply and remove than others, and most automotive products should not be used on a bike because they will turn white on black plastic and rubber.

Synthetic Waxes
Made from modern polymers and acrylic resins, synthetic waxes offer excellent durability and ease of application. Synthetic waxes (sealants) can last six to nine months or longer and typically wipe on and off easily. Sealants create a very bright shine and are resistant to clouding and streaking.

Show Bike Tricks
Bikers who own and prepare show bikes will often layer a Carnauba wax on top of a synthetic wax. The synthetic wax acts as a gloss layer while the Carnauba wax adds depth and luquidity. One combination that works well is an initial coating of Klasse All-In-One followed by one or more coats  P21S paste Wax. P21S waxes are super-pure Carnauba waxes that can be layered without any yellowing effects. Plus, they won't create a white residue on black plastic and rubber.