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Discussion Starter · #1 ·
Hi All
I tried to find this subject everywhere, but all references lead to polishing aluminum rather than the fairings.
Having a fondness of a thick layer of polish on the body, as it makes the fairings glossy like glass, and helps a lot to prevent minor scuffs, I do it regularly.
So I polish the paintwork, but when it comes to the graphics, I skip that area and all I use is some ceramic spray detailer on that part.
My question is, If I was to polish the graphics, circled in red, would I fade it? For ease, I have attached a pic of what I mean and the product.

Tire Wheel Fuel tank Motor vehicle Automotive tire


Wheel Tire Land vehicle Vehicle Car
 

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Yes, polish contains small abrasives that finely sand down paint to a more even surface. This will eat away at the sticker over time if it isn’t under clear coat. Maybe use some SC-1 on the sticker instead..
 

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Yes, polish contains small abrasives that finely sand down paint to a more even surface. This will eat away at the sticker over time if it isn’t under clear coat. Maybe use some SC-1 on the sticker instead..
thanks, that’s what I was worried about.
I like maxima products, will def give it a crack.
What do you use for stained aluminium?
Not for this bike, I have a few in the collection that I would like to clean up / renew a little, especially around the gear level area.
 

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use an ultra fine polish you should be ok, use water with it maybe even warm dish soapy water, few drops dish soap in a spray bottle, apply with your buffing pad lightly, then spray over with the spray bottle, biff out, then wipe off with a micro fiber cloth, then wax or use some sort of clear coat protectant with UV protection so forth
 

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thanks, that’s what I was worried about.
I like maxima products, will def give it a crack.
What do you use for stained aluminium?
Not for this bike, I have a few in the collection that I would like to clean up / renew a little, especially around the gear level area.
For light polishing/cleaning/touch up I’ve found this works best for me.

 

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No guarantee but this seems to be a wax only, i.e. no abrasives. See the first review. But use their liquid version. It's easier to apply and buff. Finally use a clay bar before waxing. Maybe use water with a bit of soap sprayed on as a lubricant.
 

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If the bike is in good condition , consider a ceramic coating.

I currently own 14 bikes and all are coated … after a wash I will use a wax spray/wipe.

Been a detailer for 26 years , now own two shops , we do bikes daily …
 

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Discussion Starter · #8 ·
If the bike is in good condition , consider a ceramic coating.

I currently own 14 bikes and all are coated … after a wash I will use a wax spray/wipe.

Been a detailer for 26 years , now own two shops , we do bikes daily …
Where are you based mate?
I have 6, and like the sound of a ceramic coat.
5 of mine are spotless and glass finish, including this GSXR, but have a 96 Blade 900, that just isn’t at the perfection level that puts my ocd at ease. But I’m nervous about using harsh products. So not sure how to get it to where I need it to be.
What is your business name?
 

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Where are you based mate?
I have 6, and like the sound of a ceramic coat.
5 of mine are spotless and glass finish, including this GSXR, but have a 96 Blade 900, that just isn’t at the perfection level that puts my ocd at ease. But I’m nervous about using harsh products. So not sure how to get it to where I need it to be.
What is your business name?
We are based in Gippsland Victoria mate …
 

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this might be alright, non abrasive, does it shine the aluminium up though?
I’d like to keep the standard matt finish, just get rid of the black spots.
It’s more of a cleaner, removing contaminants and giving a brighter appearance. You apply this by hand with a shop rag, wipe clean. It isn’t going to drastically change the finish. Cast will still be cast, brushed will still be brushed, etc. I used to use it frequently as a touch up on highly polished aluminum pieces. Removes light surface stains or smudges and leaves a clean streak free finish.
 

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"this might be alright, non abrasive"
Follow the safety data sheet link. The second most common ingedient, after water, is aluminum oxide. That's an abrasive in my book. It may be fine enough to have minimal effect on metal surfaces. But it's an abrasive nontheless.

My #6 post above was directed at waxing the graphics, which is what the OP originally asked about.
 
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