The warm weather is a perfect time for getting out on your motorcycle. However, on hot summer days, it’s always important to be mindful of the damage that the sun can cause to not only your skin but also to your bike. Protecting your motorcycle from sun damage isn't as simple as applying sunscreen. There are specific steps that you'll need to perform regularly. Otherwise, you'll eventually be looking at a costly repair bill.

At S&N MotorSports, we strive to make your life easier, which is why we’ve collected some essential information that you should know to prevent sun damage to your bike. If you’ve any questions or you’re looking for motorcycles for sale in Port Charlotte, FL, visit our dealership to check out the models that we have got in stock right now.

Understanding the Sun's Impact

As you’re probably aware, the sun’s rays can affect your car’s paint, which is why you should wash it often and wax it, too. It’s pretty much the same way with your motorcycle. The paint job will get a couple of shades lighter if it’s constantly exposed to the sun, even more so for colors other than grey, silver, black, and white. 

The UV rays can also damage the rubber or plastic parts, as well as impact the fuel inside the motorcycle. The accessories can become hard and brittle, and eventually crack and tear with regular use. That’s why you’ll want to store your bike somewhere cool and covered. Try to always park under the shade and, if possible, toss a motorcycle cover for extra protection.

Protecting Your Bike from the Sun

You need to take care of your bike by washing it regularly to remove any dirt and grime, which can wear out the paint and make it even more susceptible to sun damage. There are several options for cleaners, so make sure to choose something that’s suitable for your particular model. Using other cleaners, such as dishwashing liquid, can strip away the bike's paint.

Polish or wax is beneficial for protecting your paint and keeping your motorcycle looking new. Plus, it helps reflect UV radiation that creeps up on hot summer days. You can even find specialty items designed specifically to protect your bike's paint and frame from UV rays. Sure, it can be time-consuming to wash the bike and apply wax or polish. But it'll be worth it to add that extra layer of protection to your machine! Just don’t wax it too frequently since it can have a negative impact.

We hope that you found this guide helpful for preventing sun damage to your bike. For more maintenance advice or to shop some quality motorcycles for sale, visit S&N MotorSports in Port Charlotte, Florida. We welcome all our patrons visiting us from Fort Myers, so get in touch with us today!