How to Prevent Motorcycle Rust

Prevention of rust development on a two-wheeler is highly crucial for preserving the performance of the mechanical parts, maintaining the strength of weight-bearing parts, and the overall longevity of the motorcycle. While out on the road and even when stored, motorcycles are defenseless against harmful natural elements, such as rain, salts, grit, debris, and other elements that contribute to rust formation. Rusty motorcycle parts not only hurt the bike’s appearance and allure but also put its structural integrity and functionality at stake. To protect your motorcycle from rust and corrosion, a proactive approach based on regular cleaning regimes and maintenance is indispensable.

The major threat of rust development arises when the bike’s paint and chrome finish get compromised, as both paint and chrome serve as protective barriers against harmful elements in addition to enhancing the bike’s aesthetic appeal. The basic maintenance and motorcycle care to prevent rust includes washing the bike after riding in salty atmospheres, drying the bike thoroughly after washing the bike or riding in the rain, applying wax sealants properly when needed, preventing grime buildup, covering the bike properly when not in use, and using rust-inhibiting sprays that are designed specifically for motorcycles.

In a nutshell, incorporating all these habits in your motorcycle maintenance schedules will protect your motorcycle from rust formation for as long as you own a particular motorcycle. However, there is more to motorcycle rust prevention than these simple maintenance tips. In this article, find out what causes motorcycle rust, which motorcycles are more at risk, and which products are effective in countering rust build-up.

Motorcycle rust is the byproduct of the oxidation process that occurs naturally when metal parts or components, particularly those made from iron or steel, get exposed to oxygen and moisture in the air. When iron or steel motorcycle parts get exposed to a humid environment, they become vulnerable to inevitable corrosion and develop a thick layer of red-crusty material called rust.

Rust can damage various parts of your bike, including the exhaust system, engine components, motorcycle handlebars, fuel tank, frame, crash bars, and other metal parts, degrading the bike’s aesthetic charm, weakening its structure, and impairing its mechanical functionality, especially when left untreated.

To inhibit motorcycle rust development, regular cleaning, preventing road grime buildup, applying protective anti-rust coatings, and quickly fixing any damage to the chrome layer or paint finish, are necessary. Following effective maintenance protocols and taking knowledgeable steps against rust help extend your bike’s life and also improve its resale value.

As discussed earlier, the motorcycle rust oxidative/corrosive reaction of metal, especially iron and steel, with oxygen in the presence of water vapors. Sometimes the presence of salt hastens this oxidative reaction by increasing water’s conductivity, which in turn increases the electrochemical reaction between oxygen and metal, leading to an accelerated rate of corrosion deterioration.

Since water is the main culprit in the oxidation reaction between iron and oxygen, it is important to protect your motorcycle from humid weather conditions, rain, and other similar settings where your motorcycle is exposed to wet conditions. Preventing the accumulation of water by thoroughly drying all the nooks, corners, and other secluded recesses in a motorcycle can be highly effective in stopping rust.

Adventure enthusiasts find unexplained joy in riding motorcycles on highways with breathtaking sea-scape. However, this adventure comes with many risks to your motorcycle, the most damaging being rust build-up. As discussed, salt can accelerate the process of oxidative corrosion (rust); therefore, riding near coastal areas or where the roads are salted during winter can increase the chances of motorcycle rust development.

Oxygen in the air is the major corrosive agent, as it reacts promptly with the motorcycle’s metal parts, leading to rust. It is impossible to protect your motorcycle from oxygen in the air; however, oxygen is only harmful when there is a high content of moisture in the air.

Road grime, which is a mixture of grit, small debris, mud, and dirt, tends to build up on different motorcycle parts and acts as a sponge, absorbing and retaining moisture. When left uncleaned for a long period, the grime clinging to your motorcycle will create the perfect atmosphere to initiate the oxidative reaction of metal parts that leads to rusting.

There is a reason why motorcycle manufacturers focus heavily on providing impeccably finished paint jobs to their customers. Motorcycle paint and chrome are not only there for visual appeal and charm, but these decorative layers also play an important role in rust prevention. Over the years, the paint, anti-corrosive treatments, chrome layer, and clear coats, tend to fade or weaken due to prolonged use or lack of maintenance. When these coatings disintegrate, the metal surface underneath becomes exposed to moisture and oxygen in the atmosphere, leading to rust.

Though it has already been mentioned a few times throughout this article; however, its significance calls for a reiteration. The major cause of rust development is the negligence of motorcycle owners. Leaving pollutants on the motorcycle’s surfaces, using abrasives on paint and chrome layers, and not drying the motorcycle thoroughly are the actions responsible for rust formation.

Motorcycle rust also plays an unavoidable role in depreciating your motorcycle’s value, causing you a significant loss at the time of trade-in or resale. Those who think that potential buyers won’t be concerned about rusty parts on your motorcycle need to reevaluate the situation for the following reasons.

Undoubtedly, motorcycle rust makes your otherwise stunning bike lose its charm and aesthetic appeal, making it look visually unappealing. Since most buyers first get attracted to the bike’s overall appearance, you will lose out on many potential buyers due to the bike’s ill-maintained looks.

Motorcycle rust build-up indicates a lack of proper maintenance and care on the owner’s part. If the fuel tank, which is a relatively easy part to clean and maintain, has rust buildup, the buyer will rightly assume that you have also left other parts of your bike unattended. Consequently, he could reduce the price significantly due to any “hidden mechanical issues.”

In advanced stages, rust can compromise the structural strength of certain components. For example, rust on the frame or critical structural elements may raise safety concerns. Buyers are generally hesitant to invest in a motorcycle with potential safety risks.

If left untreated, advanced corrosive oxidation can undermine and impair your motorcycle’s structural integrity and resilience. For example, rust on the motorcycle subframe can raise safety concerns when riding with luggage or passengers. Similarly, rusty fuel tanks can contaminate the fuel and clog the fuel lines. Potential buyers are quite reluctant to purchase a rusty motorcycle as it fails to make a worthwhile investment.

Another reason why motorcycle buyers are uninterested in buying second-hand motorcycles with rust buildup is the costly repair work, restoration work, and replacement parts involved. Buyers who do purchase bikes with corrosion, tend to deduct the future maintenance costs that they would have to spend to restore the motorcycle.

Rust and corrosion also cause the overall price depreciation of the motorcycle. Sellers themselves tend to demand less than the market price when selling their oxidized rusty bikes. The motorcycle community as a general rule knows that a rusty motorcycle does not retain its trade-in value.

All main motorcycle mechanical components, including the engine, chain drive, transmission, braking setup, exhaust system, and more, are vulnerable to rust formation. Rust once developed on these mechanical components causes increased friction, overheating, and reduced performance and efficiency.

Exhaust systems, along with pipes and mufflers, are susceptible to rust formation that can lead to holes. Exhaust systems damaged due to rust have less efficiency, fail to meet emissions standards, and make deafening noises.

Rust on the frame and chassis may compromise the structural integrity of the motorcycle. This can affect the handling, stability, and overall safety of the bike. In extreme cases, structural rust can lead to frame failure.

Motorcycle frames and chassis after rust development fail to provide strength and support, resulting in instability, difficult handling, and reduced safety on the road. In the event of severe corrosion, motorcycle frames may fail, leading to expensive replacements.

When discussing rust formation on motorcycle chassis, it is necessary not to ignore front fork and rear shocks. These parts are equally vulnerable to rust, if not maintained properly, and rust can reduce the ability of suspension units to absorb bumps and other irregularities. Due to the poor damping performance of the rusty motorcycle suspension, riders experience difficult handling, reduced maneuverability, rough ride, and undermined safety.

Luckily, most motorcycle electrical components are not directly exposed to rust-forming elements, and hence, are less vulnerable to oxidative damage. However, rust can develop on battery terminals due to negligence and overcharging. Furthermore, if wiring, connectors, and other electrical components are exposed to moisture, they can result in electrical issues and malfunction.

The motorcycle paint job and chrome finish are directly not responsible for the bike’s mechanical efficiency; however, these coatings protect the metal parts from rust build-up, which then ensures the proper functioning of these parts. On the one hand, rusting can damage motorcycle paint, while on the flip side, rusting can initiate due to damaged paint. If the motorcycle's chrome or paint gets faded or scratched, it is crucial to fix it immediately to prevent rust formation in the process. Small scratches on the paint job can eventually lead to larger exposed sections, exacerbating and accelerating rusting.

In the dry summer season, motorcycle rust is not a big threat as any moisture clinging to the surface of your motorcycle gets removed due to extreme evaporation. On the other hand, warm humid weather conditions pose a big threat of corrosion to motorcycle parts as the remains are constantly exposed to moisture, due to high vapor content in the air, even if the bike is completely dry. Therefore, it is recommended to increase the frequency of cleaning and maintenance schedules when the air is warm but humid. Moreover, riding near the ocean in warm weather can also increase the chances of rust formation on your motorcycle due to the reasons discussed earlier in this article.

A motorcycle is prone to rust in all seasons, but even more so in cold weather conditions due to moist air and reduced rate of evaporation. Luckily, motorcycle metal parts that are made from metals other than iron, such as titanium, aluminum, and different iron alloys, are safe from being converted to the reddish brown flaking known as rust. Either way, iron is an important metal used frequently in motorcycle construction and its rusting is a concern you should never choose to ignore.

In winter, the air gets moist when it rains or snows; however, even when the air is dry during winter, your motorcycle develops rust due to the salt on the roads and the use of liquid de-icers for road safety. Both these elements contribute towards an accelerated rate of corrosion. Moreover, when the temperature eventually increases but it drizzles now and then, the salty washes resulting from rain and less-than-freezing temperatures can cause a lot of damage to your motorcycle by initiating oxidation and corrosion. In these circumstances, the motorcycle parts most vulnerable to damage are fuel tanks, exhaust systems, wheels, and brake lines. Therefore, try to give them extra attention when cleaning the motorcycle after riding for rust prevention.

Among some of the precautionary measures you can take to prevent rust and corrosion from taking hold during the colder months:

Here are some easy-to-follow precautionary tips that you can incorporate into your motorcycle maintenance routine to prevent corrosive oxidation and rust during the winter season:

1. Clean your motorcycle thoroughly after riding no matter how favorable the riding conditions are. When your motorcycle gets exposed to road salt, mud, or gravel, wash your motorcycle using a hose pipe to also clean hard-to-reach areas and dry the motorcycle properly. When planning to store your motorcycle for an extended period, make sure that the bike is completely void of grit, grease, dirt, and other contaminants.
2. Apply recommended lubricants to the chain, but make sure there is no road grime clinging to the chain drive before lubricating it. This step if performed correctly will enhance water repellency and protect against rust.
3. When storing the motorcycle for winter and aiming to prevent rust formation during periods of inactivity, make sure you change the oil and oil filter. These components, if dirty, can lead to corrosive grit and grime that damage the internal chambers of the fuel tank.
4. An empty fuel tank is the perfect place for rust formation due to the trapped moisture and condensation process taking place inside the tank. Therefore, when storing the motorcycle, always make sure that the tank is fully fueled and has a fuel stabilizer. When using a fuel stabilizer, make sure you consult the owner’s manual or an authorized motorcycle dealership. Storing the bike fully fueled will not solve the problem if you miss out on the fuel stabilizer step. The volatile and hygroscopic ethanol gasoline (fuel), evaporates naturally while simultaneously absorbing moisture, leading to oxidation of the components linked to the fuel tank. Therefore, if the fuel remains stored in the fuel tank in the absence of the stabilizer, it loses its octane rating, increasing the risk of corrosion, engine malfunction, and engine knocking.
5. Make sure to properly fill the coolant system with anti-freeze as it helps protect the engine from cracking during frigid temperatures. Moreover, the anti-freeze helps prevent winter-induced rust because intact components are more susceptible to corrosion.
6. Charge the motorcycle properly to protect motorcycle battery terminals from corrosion. Most motorcycle batteries have a lifespan between 2-5 years, depending on your maintenance commitments. For riders who use their motorcycle regularly throughout the winter season, their motorcycle batteries are less at risk of winter-related corrosion. However, if you leave your motorcycle inactive or idle for months on end, the battery will lose its charge at a much higher rate in winter. Use a high-quality charger to keep your motorcycle battery properly charged in winter and protect it from rust formation.

Many motorcyclists do not let winter diminish their passion for riding motorcycles and they continue to rev their two-wheelers on slick roads in winter. However, many owners store their bikes in winter to protect them from damage and deterioration due to harsh weather conditions. On the one hand, this protects the motorcycle from rust due to riding in wet and salty conditions. But on the other hand, it spikes the risk of rust formation due to its stagnant state.

According to an estimate by the American Automobile Association (AAA), motorcycle and automobile owners spend approximately $3 billion each year on rust-related replacements and rust prevention methods. Though this figure is not solely about motorcycle owners, it still gives an estimate that rust repairs are a costly affair. And because most motorcycles, such as street bikes, naked bikes, and adventure motorcycles’ mechanical parts are constantly exposed to the atmosphere, they are at a much greater risk than any other type of automobile.

Luckily, these high rust repair and restoration costs can be reduced through simple but timely precautionary measures. One of the most cost-effective ways of protecting your motorcycle from rust is using a high-quality and waterproof cover. Luckily, motorcycle covers designed specifically to mitigate rust and corrosion are now readily available on the market. And you should invest in one.

By throwing a regular tarp on your two-wheeler won’t do your finances and the motorcycle any good. Even if you store or park your motorcycle in your garage, it is still not completely protected from moisture. Moisture can get trapped underneath the tarp doing the opposite of what you planned to achieve with its use.

High-quality motorcycle covers for rust mitigation are crafted from moisture and corrosion inhibitors, creating a molecule-thin barrier that does not let any moisture inside near the motorcycle surface. When you remove the cover, the moisture immediately evaporates into the air.

Motorcycles in general are the most vulnerable automobiles when it comes to rust development, and the severity of corrosion on a motorcycle depends on many factors, such as manufacturer, materials, weather conditions, riding conditions, how a motorcycle is stored and ridden, the maintenance routines practiced by the owner. Furthermore, the type of motorcycle you ride also determines its tendency to develop rust.

Cruisers with their chrome highlights, naked bikes with their exposed fuel tanks, and choppers with their exposed mechanical parts are three road-focused bikes more susceptible to rusting. If you neglect chrome care, regular cleaning, proper lubrication, and protective coatings, these bikes will quickly become prey to rusting and deteriorate.

Vintage motorcycles or cult classics are usually found in the second-hand market, which means they are void of their original corrosion-resistant coatings. Moreover, in the past, motorcycles didn’t feature the rust-preventive coatings they do in the modern age. Therefore, vintage and classic motorcycles are highly prone to rusting if not maintained properly.

Touring motorcycles feature protective coatings and high-quality paint jobs that resist corrosion for a long time. Moreover, the mechanical parts of these motorcycles are also not as exposed as those of naked bikes or choppers. However, these bikes may develop rust and corrosion during cross-country trips and long hauls, especially if they encounter frequent rain during the ride or are not cleaned properly en route.

Touring motorcycles such as Harley Davidson baggers and Indian touring motorcycles are expensive as they come with premium rust-mitigating and corrosion-inhibiting treatments. These protective treatments are usually mixed in or applied over paint jobs to increase the lifespan of the paint or chrome finish. Furthermore, mechanical components also come with covers or feature stylish plastic bodywork that reduces the degree of exposure. However, these bikes are exposed to harsh road conditions and harsher weather conditions during long journeys they are designed to endure. If not properly cleaned during and after the motorcycle trip, the touring motorcycles can develop a higher magnitude of rust.

Adventure touring motorcycles or dual-sport bikes are frequently exposed to dirt, mud, water pools, rugged landscapes, and other similar harsh riding conditions. All of these factors combine to initiate and accelerate the rusting process, especially when the bike is left dirty for days or weeks. Moreover, riders use these bikes to travel to remote places where it is highly difficult to clean them and prevent road grime from accumulating. Consequently, they are more prone to rusting.

Some motorcycles are designed for a specific budget, and to keep the price point towards the lower end, manufacturers tend to skip the use of corrosion-resistant material, use less effective protective coatings, or simply use low-quality parts that cannot resist rust. Since affordability is the main focus in budget-friendly motorcycle models, corrosion prevention, durability, and longevity are often compromised.

If you live in a coastal area, your motorcycle is more at risk of rust and corrosion. Motorcycles used or stored in coastal regions, where there is a higher concentration of salt in the air, are more susceptible to rust. Salt can accelerate the corrosion process, particularly on metal surfaces. Motorcycles ridden in salty conditions must be washed with clean water and cleaned thoroughly after every ride, no matter how short or long a ride is.

Riders who live in coastal regions or ride frequently near the ocean, their motorcycles are at a much greater risk of rust formation. In coastal areas, there is a higher concentration of salts in the atmosphere, which accelerates the process of corrosive oxidation. Motorcycles parked, ridden, or stored in salty conditions must be washed with clean water after every ride and dried with a proper motorcycle dryer to eliminate all chances of vapor clinging to the surface.

If you have owned your motorcycle for a long time and plan to keep it for several more years, it is important to adopt a more proactive approach to its use and storage. Whether you store it for a night, a few days, for weeks, or months, increase the frequency of maintenance, use a rust-preventive cover every time you park the bike, and spray anti-rust coatings on it as prescribed on the product.

Rust-inhibiting sprays provide a quick and effective method to keep rust and corrosion at bay. A quick spray of anti-rust coatings can ensure that your motorcycle metal parts stay well-protected against tenacious rust for a while. These sprays also help bolts from seizing, reduce friction, and improve the overall operations of the bike. Here are the 10 best rust-prevention sprays that you can use for your motorcycle.

WD-40 is a versatile anti-rust spray that you should always keep in your home garage and even carry in your motorcycle luggage bags to use during long-distance motorcycle trips. WD-40 spray works remarkably well when it comes to unseating bolts and lock nuts. Plus, it effectively wards off any signs of rust and corrosion. Consisting of light oils, WD-40 displaces water so you can also apply it to parts where water gets trapped

The XCP Professional Rust Blocker is another multi-purpose anti-rust spray that is advertised as a soft and long-lasting, anti-corrosive compound. From steel to iron alloys, the XCP Professional Rust Blocker protects all motorcycle surfaces that are vulnerable to rust. The product can be easily applied using a brush, aerosol spray, or cloth. Though a bit expensive, you only need to apply it sparingly to create a strong barrier against corrosion. Since only a small amount of this product is used at one time, it can be used for a while before you need to restock.

The S-Doc SDoc 100 Corrosion Protection is a unique product that is claimed to completely seal motorcycle metal parts after application. This product is well-known for its strong anti-rust properties and also helps displace water so you can apply it in areas where moisture gets trapped. Its active formula also helps lubricate rust-prone areas and initiate a self-healing response once its protective film gets in place. Though a little expensive, a small quantity of this product is all you need to get the job done. Having a sticky texture, you might want to apply this product using a cloth or aerosol.

The Scottoilers’ FS 365 anti-rust spray is a blend of surfactants, anti-corrosive agents, and mineral oil that create a stable solution for rust protection. One of the most affordable anti-rust products, the Scottoilers’ anti-rust formula clings to the motorcycle surface to create a protective layer against corrosion. When the bike gets dirty, the FS 365’s biodegradable and water soluble formula allows you to easily remove it, along with grime, and apply a fresh layer for optimal rust protection. However, in the event of rain, this product gets washed off and you need to reapply it immediately for its rust-inhibiting properties.

It comes as a spray aerosol and is perfect for post-wash treatment, according to the company. It drives out moisture and lubricates parts as well as protects them. You can use this motorcycle rust-prevention product on every part of the bike except the tire treads and the brakes.

The Muc-Off 909 motorcycle rust protector is another product on this list that works wonders against rust. Packaged in an aerosol spray bottle, the Muc Off 909 is the perfect after-wash anti-rust treatment that your bike needs. This rust-mitigating spray automatically removes all moisture and lubricates the mechanical parts properly to ward off any potential reasons for damage. The Muc-Off 909 anti-rust spray can be applied on all motorcycle parts except tire treads and brake rotors.

TechCoat Anti-Rust protective spray for motorcycles is another great product that displaces water and protects against corrosion. This product can be applied to all motorcycle parts except the braking system and exhaust headers. Its light oil-like protective film is all you need to fight rust on motorcycle parts.

The ACF-50 metal anti-rust spray for motorcycles is claimed to be a one-of-kind anti-rust formula consisting of state-of-the-art lubrication and rust-mitigating compounds. Unlike other sprays, the ACF-50 penetrates thick layers of corrosion, removing it from the motorcycle surfaces, and also repelling any water vapors trapped. The product is expensive but provides active rust protection for up to 12 months. To avoid wastage, it is best to apply it with a cloth. Light non-sticky texture makes application a smooth and more streamlined process.

Zerust Axxanol Spray-G is a protective grease formula in the sprayable form and tends to outperform other anti-rust coatings with its excellent anti-corrosion properties. Its oily grease-like texture makes it easy to apply and provides effective corrosion control for up to one year when the motorcycle is ridden outdoors and up to two years when properly stored indoors.

In addition to rust prevention, Zerust Axxanol Spray-G can also be used as a motorcycle lubricant. Resistant to water and compatible with plastic and rubber parts also, along with metal parts, the Zerust formula offers the following additional benefits:

• Sprayable rust-inhibitor compatible with a wide range of metal surfaces
• Offers protection from harsh road and weather conditions
• Safe product for motorcycle plastic and painted parts
• Non-toxic and easily disposable
• Can be removed using an alkaline cleaner

Lanoguard Moto Grease is a premium quality grease, anti-seize, and lube designed specifically for motorcycle enthusiasts. Its versatile and multifaceted nature makes it suitable for heavy-duty lubrication of moving motorcycle parts. Moreover, this non-evaporating grease keeps the motorcycle chain working in optimal condition for smoother rides and also protects against rust, friction, and damage related to these factors. Lanoguard anti-rust motorcycle grease and spray are also ideal for nuts and bolts and can be used as a synthetic wax for painted motorcycle surfaces, chrome accents, and surface polish, providing a comprehensive barrier against corrosion and rust. This heavy-duty product is also designed to provide a reliable jet wash-proof and non-vaporating anti-corrosion layer for motorcycle frames and engines. Overall it is a great product to use on different motorcycle parts for lubrication, polish, and rust inhibition.

Adam’s Iron Out -Fall Out motorcycle rust remover spray is a highly effective and result-oriented chemical that dissolves rust particles and removes them from your motorcycle, stopping the advancing rust in its tracks. The most unique attribute of Adam’s Iron Out anti-rust motorcycle spray is that it can be safely used on the entire motorcycle for the effective removal of rust and other contaminants. In addition to protecting your bike’s chassis and engine, the Adam’s Iron Out spray also maintains your bike’s aesthetic appeal by creating a strong shield against rust over the painted and chromed surfaces.

Motorcycle rust prevention can seem hectic and complicated because you always have to be on your guard against corrosion to ensure your bike’s longevity, efficiency, aesthetic appeal, and performance. However, regular maintenance, care, and cleaning regimes can protect your motorcycle from rust no matter how adverse the riding conditions get. The main elements that you need to protect your bike include water, road grime, dirt, and salt. Against these harmful elements, you can use wax sealants, anti-corrosion sprays, rust inhibitors, and proper motorcycle lubricants as a shield.

When it comes to rust preventive measures, anti-rust motorcycle covers also help the situation significantly. Always make sure that you check the levels of humidity in the area where you plan to store your bike. High humidity levels are as dangerous for motorcycles as exposure to rain as both conditions involve high levels of moisture that initiate oxidative reactions between iron and oxygen. By using rust preventive measures, you can maintain your bike’s resale value, reduce your motorcycle replacements and repair costs, and enjoy its performance for a long time.