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Motorcycle frame - wheel polishing

2004

My name is Dave and I don't work for any sort of metal finishing companies, I just have a few questions about polishing my Yamaha R6 motorcycle frame and rims. I am aware that in doing this project, I am committing myself to a long and possibly painful process, but here in Ontario there isn't much of a riding season in the winter anyways. I have recently had my bike stolen from me and finally recovered in a fairly battered state and I figure now's the time to do what I have always wanted to it while I am repairing it.

- What are the proper steps in hand polishing the frame and wheels?
- What types of materials would be best suited for each step?
- Are sanders or buffers (electric) effective in speeding up the process?
- I am not sure if the wheels consist of the same type of material as the frame, does this mattter in getting the same mirror finish results?
- Are there any other useful tips?

Thank you for taking the time to read over this request and I hope someone can help me out with as much information and input as possible so I can get started on this project of persuing my dream-bike. I will also be painting the plastic fairings from the traditional Yamaha blue and white to all black with just a few custom decals in white or grey to create a mean and more stealthy R6. Thanks

Dave Sirove
hobbyist - London, Ontario, Canada

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2004

Hello Dave. Those questions have been asked and answered here many times over the years. letter No. 800 is probably the best starting point.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey