Original Finish on the "Y" Wheel Rims on the Monoshocks

[88bmwjeff]

Here's an interesting question. How were the "Y" wheel rims finished originally from BMW on the monoshocks (and early K bikes for that matter)? The rims do not appear to be painted or coated, but rather just some alloy. The parts fiche says cast iron, but I doubt they're iron. The wheels, while in average to good condition, don't look so nice anymore. My first thought was to powder coat them, but the mechanic who took the tires off gave me some advice on where to and where not to have powder coating applied. And now, I'm second guessing whether to powder coat them or not. Perhaps a really good cleaning would be better. I just want them to look good.

 

[52184]

A good cleaning that doesn’t involve metallic scrubbing brushes would be a good start. There are a number of readily available cleaning products designed for aluminum wheels. If that gets them to where you are happy with them you might consider a clear coat spray to keep them looking sharp.

If cleaning isn’t enough, the next option would be having the wheels vapor-honed or blasted with crushed walnut shells (NOT sand) which usually restores an OEM look, and clear-coating is an option at that point.

Lastly, there’s always the option of cleaning then painting with Wurth Silver Wheel Paint. That matches quite well with wheels on the oilheads and newer bikes but might be a touch too “silver” for airhead or early-k wheels.

Best,
DeVern

 

[Anyname]

My 86 Monoshock has silver painted wheels. Fairly sure that my 85 K100 did too.

 

[88bmwjeff]

My 86 Monoshock has silver painted wheels. Fairly sure that my 85 K100 did too.

My wheels are silver as well, and my initial thought is that they were/are painted. Now that I see them with the tires off, I'm not so sure. The wheels don't look like they're painted.