Water and electricity don't mix so when it comes to cleaning an electric dirt bike like a Stark Varg take special precautions, but don't worry about becoming the starring role in a forthcoming sequel to Faces of Death.
BZZZZZT!
Indeed not. Washing a Stark Varg, and likely future editions of the electric dirt bike, with water won't send you to the electric chair but like the gas-powered counterpart you can ruin components and damage parts if you power wash on high.
How to Wash a Stark Varg
Wash the Stark just like a regular gas-powered dirt bike but without the exhaust plug. No ICE parts here but do keep in mind the battery and electrical components. Don't bother with special soaps or cleansers, grab the usual off the garage shelf and get started! The following falls in line with how to wash a regular dirt bike:
- Spray it down. Some don't adhere to the advice of NOT using a high-powered pressure washer, nonetheless, mild pressure (try standing a few feet away with a pressure washer or use an electric version - smirk emoji) for sure gets chunks of dirt and mud off faster than traditional elbow grease.
- Use the usual dirt bike friendly soap.
- Use a soft brush, sponge or a cloth hand/wash mitt (those work great).
- Rinse.
- Air dry, towel dry or use air compressor (especially for the cubbies).
What to Avoid When Washing a Stark Varg
Unplug the bike! And this goes without saying but well, you know some people - don't turn it on.
No need for an exhaust plug but take care around what propels an electric bike. You cannot remove the battery either. Don't even try. Stark integrates the battery into the frame. In fact, the battery and electrical components meet IP69K rated sealing. Basically, a technical way to say these parts withstand washing, rain, mud and dust, and designed to do so.
However, when washing don't spray the battery, motor and electrical connections directly. Like on a gas dirt bike, water breaks down seals and repeated water contact and can ruin the seals. We advise washing the Stark on a dirt bike stand and not lying down.
Once finished, check the venting systems. Avoid spraying directly into these systems and use a leaf blower or air compressor to remove any moisture. Follow with a thorough drying of your electric dirt bike. Let it dry overnight before charging.
If you already ride an e-bike or electric mountain bike, wash your Stark the same way you clean your e-MTB.
Deep Cleaning your Stark Varg
A deep cleaning of your electric bike also follows a similar method to your gas dirt bike. This involves removing the plastic, seat and tires, handlebars too. Unlike the gas powered ride, you won't remove the engine or any of the electrical parts. But grease all bearings and use SC1 or whatever polish you like on the plastic and lubricate the chain and sprockets.
Tearing down your Stark gets you access to missed spots when doing the usual post-ride cleanup. These small spaces accumulate dirt and debris and need occasional flushing out to keep your ride from premature wear and tear.
Tearing down also unveils the carbon fiber front subframe, chromoly steel main frame and aluminum rear subframe. Use the same mild dirt bike specific soaps and rinse off. Finish with a protective spray to prevent corrosion and rust like Muc-Off Motorcycle Protectant on the main frame and rear frame.
Consider the thorough cleaning a twice a year job and most certainly after the riding season ends, if such a thing in your part of the country.
