To Clean or Not To Clean - That is the Question

[EricOlson]

I vote for clean it up. Leave the original finish on all the parts, but clean the grease and dirt. Can't see where that would hurt for enjoying it as is. Looking forward to some road trip pics!

[T. Cotten]

If you don't clean it, Skirted,..

Then its a NeglectaGlide.

....Cotten

[26fhead]

I say clean it and maintain it then ride it. Nice looking ride and good find!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Steve

[jim d]

I vote to clean it up. A unkept motorcycle usually is neglected in other areas also. Maybe not always but a lot of times things as wheel bearings and neck bearings are not serviced regularly. Just my opinion but each to their own. There is a difference between used with wear and tear versus neglect.

[joe fxs fxr]

I never understood the appeal of 'vintage dirt'. Clean it and enjoy.

[montuckymatt]

I say clean it and it will be dirty again after 1000 miles. I always prefer dirt/oil that has accumulated from my own riding. Lovely bike!

[Skirted]

I picked up an original paint low mileage 64 Duo Glide as a backup for the Chief. It does not appear to have been cleaned or polished in many years, perhaps decades. The bike would really pop if paint and brightwork were detailed. Better half says DO NOT clean. There is a trend to have crusty looking originals and I like original but that crust wasn't there "originally" and am torn between leaving it in its current natural state or cleaning up the paint and brightwork. Leaving dirty leans toward neglect but at same time there seems to be some desirability for old dirt and the natural undisturbed degradation of finishes that only time can create.
I once saw a friend who shall remain nameless in a crazy panic at the Jefferson meet because it clouded up quickly and he was scrambling to find a tarp so rain drops did not disturb the old dust on his original 48 pan.

Interested in hearing thoughts on cleaning it or leave it alone and ride it.