Wheels can corrode or be cosmetically damaged if they are not properly cleaned, polished and preserved. Cleaning and sealing wheels with the proper treatment will guard against pitting, corrosion, spots and stains. Harley-Davidson recommends that wheels be cared for weekly. Corrosion to wheels is not considered to be a defect in materials or workmanship.
NOTE
Bare aluminum wheels do not have a protective coating and will corrode if not properly treated. Apply HARLEY PRESERVE BARE ALUMINUM PROTECTANT when purchasing the motorcycle and at least twice per year to prevent cosmetic damage to bare aluminum wheels.
Keep wheels clean from harsh chemicals, acid based wheel cleaners, salt, and accumulated brake dust. After washing wheels with WHEEL AND TIRE CLEANER, use the polish and sealing products in Table 1 according to the type of wheels on your motorcycle.
Table 1. Wheel Polish and Sealing Products
WHEELS
PRODUCT
DESCRIPTION
Bare aluminum
HARLEY PRESERVE BARE ALUMINUM PROTECTANT
Creates a protective coating for bare aluminum wheels to prevent oxidation.
Polished aluminum or stainless steel
BRIGHT METAL POLISH
Microabrasive polish to refurbish polished wheels. Do not use on chrome.
HARLEY GLOSS
Seals and protects against harsh chemicals, salt, and other sediments to prevent oxidation.
Anodized (thick painted surfaces)
HARLEY GLAZE POLISH & SEALANT
Cleans surface, removes fine scratches, and provides a breathable sealant against acid, chemicals, salt, and brake dust.
Chrome
BRIGHT CHROME CLEANER
Non-abrasive cleaner to brighten chrome wheels.
HARLEY GLOSS
Seals and protects against harsh chemicals, salt, and other sediments to prevent oxidation.