Matte Black Harley

gusbubba · 07-29-09, 05:05

Hey all,
my neighbor just got himself a matte black harley sportster.
He says he was advised by the shop and other sources to clean
the bike with an ammonia-based product.
Sounded a little funny to me.
Anyone confirm or deny?

Danase · 07-29-09, 05:55

I hate those finishes.

M-1172 1 of 2
SERVICE BULLETIN
BLACK DENIM PAINT CARE INSTRUCTIONS
Purpose
The purpose of this bulletin is to provide an understanding of
the characteristics of Black Denim paint and the required
care to the dealer network.
Black Denim finish differs from traditional high-gloss finishes
on other Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Like denim fabric,
Black Denim paint will burnish with age and use, adding
character and personality to the finish of the motorcycle. The
integrity of the paint, however is not affected by age.
Please refer customers to the Owner’s Manual for details on
finish care.
If scratched, nicked or scuffed, Black Denim paint can not be
buffed out. If polished, the finish will become less matte and
more glossy over time. This finish can not be repaired.
Motorcycles with Black Denim paint should follow processes
outlined in the Harley-Davidson Cosmetic Guidelines booklet.
Motorcycles Affected
Select 2006 VRSCD and FXDB Dyna model motorcycles.
Required Dealer Action
Inform service personnel of the special care instructions for
Black Denim paint, communicate the characteristics of Black
Denim paint to customers at time of vehicle order placement
and review at time of new vehicle delivery.
Service Procedure
Cleaning Black Denim paint:
●
For heavy deposits on finish:
Use a grease cutting
dishwashing detergent and a clean H-D wash-mitt (P/N
94760-99). Dilute dishwashing detergent per instructions
provided by manufacturer and rinse thoroughly with
clean water.
●
For light deposits on finish:
Use ammonia based
glass cleaner and a soft H-D Soft-Cloth (HD-94656-98).
●
For final detailing:
Use H-D Gloss with H-D Soft Cloth.
NOTE
Refer to Table 1 for recommended cleaning care products.
M-1172 July 23, 2005
IMPORTANT NOTE
In the interest of preserving customer safety and satisfaction, always check for outstanding recalls whenever any motorcycle is brought into your
dealership for either maintenance or service.

gusbubba · 07-29-09, 08:29

Outstanding, Bob!
Thanks for the info.

Danase · 07-29-09, 08:30

Quote:

Originally Posted by gusbubba

Outstanding, Bob!
Thanks for the info.

No problemo! I'm glad I saw it too. I always just thought they where flat paint but called denim. The paint is actually made to fade and wear like denim I guess.

nighttraingirl · 08-06-09, 04:11

Yes, denim paint. Lucky to have not have had to deal with this stuff. I'm used to having to make things shiny. LOL.
I guess I'd just wash the tins per directions.