2 Wash & Detailing : How My Ducati Shines Bright Like A Diamond

Take care of your ride, and it'll take care of you!

As y'all know, I ride my Ducati Hypermotard quite a lot.

Personally, it's a great bike to me as it fulfils most of my needs as a biker. From commuting around our island, to occasional touring trips to Malaysia or Thailand, and even a bit of track at Johor Circuit on quiet weekdays.

Credits to 123rf

Some days, when I get home from a whole day's work, all I wanna do is just slouch on the couch like a potato. Don't talk about washing the dishes, cleaning my bike doesn't even come close.

Other days, I get home from a fun ride at the tracks and I've got work to catch up with, or Suits (my favourite TV series) to catch up on, or.. slouch on the couch like a potato again..

Well, there are times (once in a while) where I like to spend quiet evenings, play some music and take my time to give my bike a good basic wash. It's actually quite therapeutic.

But honestly, with a busy work schedule and so much riding around, it can be difficult to find time to get my red baby showered. Not just that, but even if I do, it's only the basics.

How about protecting it's paintwork? Getting rid of stubborn stains? Getting the surface to shine?
And making the results last?

Here's where the detailing specialist, 2 Wash & Detailing, steps in to the rescue!

About : 2 Wash & Detailing

What I like about 2 Wash is, detailing is not just a job to them, but their team is actually devoted to the art of vehicle detailing. They proudly provide vehicles they touch with utmost care using premium products applied through quality skilled workmanship.

The truth is, there are quite a number of detailing companies around. But it was when I saw how 2 Wash & Detailing literally transformed am extremely dull looking 11 year old black Suzuki GSX into a shining black rock (click here to see), I knew I had to try them out.

Made an advanced appointment with them, and when they turned up at my place with all their equipment, I knew my Ducati's gonna experience some Cinderella-magic.

So here goes the 8 HOUR JOB guys!

Preparation Phase

They got my bike to a well litted area but under a shade, so to avoid any direct sunlight which is what damages the paintwork overtime.

They waited for my bike's engine to cool down (as I had just returned from a ride), they laid out a whole row of towels; every towel have their own specific use (drying/buffing/glass cleaning/dirty towels/etc) and also to ensure no cross contamination occurs.

Washing phase

First, they pre-washed my bike using a high-powered pressure washer to loosen dirt or grimes before touching the bike with wash mitts/soap etc.

Snow Wash

Next, my bike gets to play in snow!

It's sprayed over with a high density foam where they let it sit for a while before using a wash mitt / clay towel to cleanse my bike.

Chain Cleaning

Using S100 Chain Cleaner, they sprayed it onto my chain and let it sit for about 10 minutes.

Rims Cleaning

Using Liqui Moly's Rim Cleaner on the wheels and let it sit for approx. 7 minutes (so precise).

De-Greasing On The Engine

Using a biodegradable engine specific degreaser for my bike's engine area to effectively remove those stubborn gooey sticky black shit.

After all that application, it's time to wash them all off with a high-powered pressure jet.

Dry

Just like how we towel dry our hair after a shower, they pat my bike dry with a high quality towel by Cobra.

Followed by using a blower to minimize any risk of leftover dirt that may accidentally scratch my bike's surface. This is applied to the wheels, engine, chain and every other part. No area is missed out.

Paint polishing preparation phase

Claying the painted parts once more just in case the clay towel was not enough, which also prevents scratching from embedded dirt.

Taping the edges around headlights before polishing to prevent scratches, chipping of paint of edges etc.

Polishing Phase

Ooh so this is how my baby is about to shine bright like a diamond!

Step 1 – Compound
Step 2 – Remove imperfections
Step 3 – Finishing Glaze

2 Wash & Detailing always use a buffing towel to buff off excess and inspect the paint after each step to check for any missed spots.

I can see my red darling starting to glow..

Protection Phase

After so much effort in polishing up this beauty, of course we have to protect its shine!

Applying Chemical Guys & Wolfgang Paint Sealant on in straight lines and overlap the applied areas to minimize any swirl formation.

Left it on for 30 minutes of curing time so the sealant and the paint bonds, before buffing it off. No exposure to moisture is allowed for at least 12 hours to let the sealant fully bond with the paint.

Coating

The tricky part is different coatings have different elements.

Some requires 1 - 3 minutes of curing time, whereas others are allowed to wipe off immediately. So it was really important that 2 Wash & Detailing knows each of their products and application mode well.

They evened out the coating on the surfaces before wiping off because if the area is not cleaned properly, it would require re-compounding again.



Now check out the Before & After Pictures

2 Wash & Detailing Tips / Advices

" We highly recommend regular proper washing of bikes with the right products and methods. This will delay and minimize the deterioration of paintwork and parts, thus saving money on restorations/ change of parts. "


2 Wash & Detailing FREE Consultation 

Having a passion for vehicle detailing, they're more than happy to offer a non-obligatory free assessment of your paintwork/metal/other parts and will advise what's required according to their experience and expertise.

Even without seeing any before and after pictures, I was already so impressed by how meticulous 2 Wash & Detailing were with every detailing step.

With such a thorough cleanse and applying the glass coating (I'M IN LOVE WITH THE GLASS COAT SERIOUSLY) so well, the results are ASTOUNDING. My darling Ducati is SHINING EVEN AT NIGHT.

Wow.

Look at all the lines! And my bike's red color paintwork is restored, it looks so fresh now.

Thank you so much 2 Wash & Detailing for such an awesome work done on my Ducati Hypermotard!





2 Wash & Detailing
Address: 253A Choa Chu Kang Ave 1 MSCP 
Tel: 9106 9560
2 Wash Facebook - Here
Prices vary, depending on vehicle. Call/SMS them for a non-obligatory quote!

Ducati : Reddest Hottest Ride So Far, With The 1299 Panigale

Imagine going from Road-ready, to Race-ready, all just within a touch of a button.

With the Ducati 1299 Panigale, you can.

As if its predecessor, the 1199 Panigale, is not powerful enough, Ducati raises the limits of superbikes by building a machine storing up to 205 hp in a twin-cylinder engine, with a set of high technology electronics working its magic behind-the-scenes.

To have experienced it.. is just pretty damn amazing!

Put the 1299, 1199 and 899, you might almost miss the subtle difference of the 1299 having a slightly wider front fairing than both the latter.

Reason for this? Granting better aero dynamics.

Credits to ducatitriumpnyc

If you offer me free tickets to Batman VS Superman, I'd rather spend 153 minutes of movie time admiring the stunning curves of the 1299 Panigale. Paired with a set of beautiful LED headlights, the frontal sleek design of the 1299 works its way nicely towards to back, with it's sexy rear nicely accentuated.

Oh, Italians and their designs..

Credits to youtube

Browse through its menu of riding modes via it's neat dashboard, simply select and there, you'll find yourself switching from road to race mood in a breeze. Even when the roads get wet, the bike is fitted on with such sophisticated set of technology that would electronically tune the suspension, DTC, ABS and overall engine performance of the bike according to the road condition you're in.

Seat height is a little higher at 32.7inches, which is maybe that's why I felt the bike was slightly heavier despite it using Monocoque lightweight aluminium frame? Or maybe it's just my arms lacking the muscles it needs....

Credits to pirelli

Fitted on with Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP that warms up quickly, you can be confident on the tarmacs with maximum grip at maximum lean angle.

Marzoochi front forks and fully adjustable Sach shocks both enhances the bike's overall suspension's behavior, no wonder I find it so comfortable to ride on despite being initially intimidated by its big CC and acclaimed power.

And with such overwhelming power on this Superquadro L-twin horse, you'd need equally powerful brakes like its Brembo Monobloc calipers that can efficiently bring it to a halt when you need to.

To tame things a little, Ducati has got its Engine Braking Contol (EBC), Ducati Traction Control (DTC), and even a Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC) to ensure even the big-bike-beginner riders that they are in total control of the beast.

Overall verdict

As someone who loves the occasional adrenalin of speed but leaning more towards a relaxed ride exploring vast landscapes via touring,  the power of the 1299 is a little too overwhelming for me, although Ducati never fails to impress with it's design and ever-upgrading technologies.


The 1299 Panigale - Yet another impeccable creation from Ducati.





Ducatisti Singapore
9 Kaki Bukit Road 1
Singapore 415938
Tel: 6631 8166
Opening Hours: 0900 - 1830

Japan : Riding Up Close To Mount Fuji, While Chasing The Sakura Bloom

What would you do if you have a motorcycle and only two days in Tokyo, Japan?
Keep in mind that there's tons of wonderful things to eat, sightsee and shop!

Well, that short amount of time is definitely not enough for me, but I've gotta make the most out of this impromptu ride trip! By trying to squeeze as many things to do within the next 48 hours before I fly to Kuala Lumpur for World Superbike race @ Sepang with Pirelli.

At Lake Yamanakako

Day one on my own with the KTM 690 Duke (special thanks to KTM Japan) saw a really gloomy start. Weather wasn't playing nice. No sky, no mountain in view, strong winds, and rain. Just look at my un-enthusiastic face there. LOL.

Credits to tokyo.diji-joho

Visit The 5 Fuji Lakes

So starting from Lake Yamanakako, the plan for today was to visit the 5 Fuji Lakes which are the most popular spots for viewing Japan's tallest active volcano, Mount Fuji.

Credits to volcano.oregon

富士山 (Fujisan) stands at 3,776m above sea level and is Japan's tallest active volcano.

Lake Yamanakako is the largest lake among the 5 Fuji Lakes, and also the highest in terms of surface elevation. Yet it is also the most shallow one, with only a water depth of 13.5 metres. The Lake was formed during an early eruption of Mt. Fuji, and was drained by the Sagami River.

But with such heavy fog blanketing the skies, I know.. there was little chance of catching a glimpse of Mount Fuji. Weather plays a huge role when it comes to sightseeing. Everything looks vibrant and beautiful when it's sunny blue skies. But the minute it's rainy and cloudy, everything is just GREY.

Thankfully, I caught up with the Sakura season (cherry blossom) that totally lifted the dampening mood! I didn't expect to be able to see it because according to forecasts, by mid April, it was already over.

And we are now in May.

According to Japan's Cherry Blossom Forecast guide, the Sakura season in Tokyo lasted only from end of March to the start of April.

If you didn't know, cherry blossom usually lasts up to only 14 days with average Spring weather, but can be cut short from excessive rain or heat.

But here I am, so blessed to be standing under endless rows of beautiful Sakura with their petals gently falling all around me.

I wanted to collect ALL the Sakura that fell to the ground, put them in a box, and bring it back to Singapore to show my friends and family how pretty pink they were. But I think even before I board the plane, they'd all turn brown.

So instead, I took a thousand picture of em, to remember how lovely this moment is.

Time to head onto the next lake, Lake Kawaguchiko, that was a short 18KM away via Route 139. Road tolls in Japan is a little on the high side, so if you can skip toll roads, try to do so as normally the alternative non-toll roads are a breeze to travel on, except for occasional heavy traffic.

On the way to Kawaguchiko, I managed to catch a short glimpse of Mt. Fuji but it was soon quickly covered by the heavy fog again.

Arrived at Kawaguchiko, a more popular town among tourists and checked into Koe House (2,500 Yen/night) which I found on AirBnb.

It's located right opposite Kawaguchiko Train Station, and 5 minutes from Lake Kawaguchiko so it was easy to find. Chose the Tatami-styled room and because it was off peak season, I got to enjoy the whole place to myself!

Why Hostels Over Hotels In Japan?

The superb thing about hostels or guesthouses in Japan is that they're extremely clean and tidy, thanks to their high standards of cleanliness. Hotels in Japan can be expensive, especially in the city, so opting for hostels is the next best alternative.

Besides, many of the hostels have very good showering facilities, male/female rooms separated on different floors for privacy, and some even have onsen (hot spring) facility! It's also a great place to meet other travelers from all over the world.

Unloaded my side panniers filled with my baggage and continued the ride onto Lake Saiko.

Weather remained gloomy but at least the rain has stopped. It was quite chilly with the wind blowing when riding so I had my RS Taichi thermal wear to keep warm, the same one that kept me warm when I was in the Himalayas last June! :)

Had my senses soothed as I cruised gently along Lake Saiko with the KTM 690 Duke, before dark clouds and strong winds started approaching in. Better look for shelter soon, and get something to fill my rumbling tummy.

Stumbled upon this little Japanese cafe along the road that overlooks Lake Saiko and there was a friendly old lady at the entrance, signalling me in to come in as the rain was approaching in fast.

And so I did.

It was cosy and warm inside, as I removed my gears and went like "Ah...., shiok" while stoning at the tranquil Lake Saiko right next to me.

Stoned for about 5 minutes before I went through the menu on what to eat.

Oh great, it's all in Japanese and there's no pictures LOL. I can't read Japppp. Used my really lousy Japanese to finally let the old lady know what I wanted.

And lunch is served! Home-cooked curry beef rice :)

Gulped everything down within minutes cuz I was so hungry. With my tummy satisfied and the rain reducing to a light drizzle, I thanked the old lady for her warm hospitality and continued the ride onto Lake Shoji.

Lake Shoji is the smallest lake among the 5 Fuji Lakes, and shares the same elevation with Lake Saiko and Lake Motosuko, which confirms that these three lakes used to be one, but was divided by a huge amount of lava flow from Mt. Fuji during one of its eruption.

It'll be much more enjoyable to be here during Summer with sunny days and blue skies, where visitors would fill the campsites nearby and canoe out onto the lake.

Moving onto the last of the 5 Fuji lakes, Lake Motosuko.

Lake Motosuko is the deepest lake among the rest, with a maximum water depth of 121.6 metres. Sport fishing is a popular activity here during Summer. What's cool is that according to Wikipedia, this lake and its view of Mt. Fuji were actually featured on the Series D of the Japanese 5000 Yen note!

Thankfully, the skies cleared up and a gorgeous sunset revealed when I arrived at Lake Motosuko.
Watching the soft sunset with the KTM 690 Duke has never felt more romantic.... hahaha.

If you don't already know, sunsets are my favourite time of the day :) because they're so calming.
At least my day visiting the 5 Fuji Lakes didn't end on a gloomy note!

The great thing about Japan is they have vending machines EVERYWHERE. LOL, from hot/cold drinks, to ciggies and snacks. Got a can of hot cocoa coffee to warm my hands, and here's to a magnificent view of Lake Motosuko!

Time to head outta here, back to Kawaguchiko, before it gets too dark!

On the way back, I stopped by for a steaming hot bowl of ramen to warm my tummy as the current weather temperature here at night is pretty cold at 13°C.

Let's hope tomorrow's weather will be better.

Day Two 

These Tatamis are so cosyyyy, I could snuggle in all day. But! I opened my eyes and the clear blue skies were calling out!

Japan convenience stores are seriously one of the best ever. They have almost everything! And the food there is nothing less than delicious. Grabbed my breakfast here, some yoghurt and bun, before heading out to hunt for Mt. Fuji!

Here at Lake Kawaguchiko, one of the 5 Fuji Lakes that was located right behind Koe House. It has the longest shoreline, and is a major hub for those who plan to climb Mt. Fuji during the climbing seasons (July/August).

How many Mt. Fuji do you see here? ;)

Wow, the weather today is just AMAZING.
Blue skies, cloudless, and perfect temperatures at 19°C!
FINALLY, we see such a clear view of the majestic MOUNT FUJI!!!

Biker Life: Pack some food along, ride around, find a great spot, and enjoy your meal with the best views of nature.

Here's where I'm having my breakfast! With such an incredible view of Japan's tallest volcano.

Ah... This is life...
Took my own sweet time to finish my breakkie. Let's try to find another spot to view Mt. Fuji.

I rode towards the direction of Mt. Fuji and found myself lost in the woods, as usual haha. But the air here is so crisp and fresh!

Rode through some residential area and found another unblocked view of the snow capped volcano. Hard to imagine it erupting.. It looks so graceful. Probably one of the prettiest volcano on Earth.

The wonderful thing about Japan's most iconic volcano is that whichever angle you view it from, its still so beautiful and majestic looking.

Argh.. I wish I could spend another day or two here, but it's time to head to Tokyo city because.. how can you not shop in Japan??

Passed by Fuji-Q Highland, Mt.Fuji's theme park with a Guinness World Record holding roller coaster of being one of the tallest in the world at 79m. Can't believe I actually rode on it 2 years ago when I was here. I remember screaming my lungs out.

Riding a motorcycle is less straining to the heart... hehe.

Ok so I hopped onto the highway where I traveled 150KM to Shibuya, Tokyo. There was not much traffic until nearing the city, and the toll from Mt. Fuji to Tokyo cost about 3,800 Yen.

Before I knew it, I find myself right next to Tokyo Tower! It's the second-tallest structure in the whole of Japan, standing at 332.9metres.

Say Hi to Japan's Traffic Police! Hurhur.

Dropped the KTM 690 Duke back to KTM Japan's shop, and headed off to Shibuya for some shopping!

Shop until I drop....

And that's how I spent two full days in Japan with and without a motorcycle!

Thank you KTM Japan for the KTM 690 Duke which was such a friendly bike and with it fitted on with Metzeler's new grippy Roadtec 01, the ride never felt so reliable and comfortable.

I'm already exploring other parts of Japan to ride in as I jetset off to Kuala Lumpur for FIM World Superbike Championship Race and.. my first track ride at Sepang after that!