Which Bike Wash Should You Use? | Quick Clean Express Wash vs. Clean Machine Bike Wash
Keeping your bike clean shouldn’t be overly complicated. At Formula 100, we built two easy to use cleaning solutions to match the way real riders maintain their bikes: the fast, rinse-free convenience of Quick Clean Express Wash and the deep-cleaning power of Clean Machine Bike Wash. Each product tackles different levels or types of dirt and riding conditions, and understanding those differences will help you choose the perfect wash for your bike, your schedule, and your terrain.
Both washes deliver fast, effective no-run cleaning and use our SMART pH technology that is formulated to only target gunk, dirt & dust while protecting & preserving everything else. Wash after wash, Smart pH chemistry makes subsequent washes easier; longevity is increased, seals & electronics are protected. Each cleaner shines in different scenarios. In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences, help you choose the right wash for your riding style. You'll also find the best companion products to complete your cleaning routine.
What's the Difference?
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Type | Spray-on | Relax | Wipe-Off | Spray-on | Relax | Rinse |
| Ideal For | Dust, sweat, light grime | Mud, heavy dirt, deep clean |
| Water Needed? | No | Yes (not high pressure) |
| Time Required | 3–5 minutes | 5–10 minutes |
| Finish Protection | UV Defense + Hydrophobic coating | Cleaning only; finish with Ride + Shine for added protection |
| Best for eBikes | ⭐ Excellent | Be sure electrical ports are closed when rinsing |
Choose Quick Clean Express Wash If:
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Your rides leave your bike dusty but not crusty
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You want a quick bike refresh and waterless convenience
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You live in an apartment or have limited cleaning space
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You want to a protective coating that helps extends cleaning intervals
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Checkout our 2-Minute Tutorial: How to Use Quick Clean Express Wash
Choose Clean Machine Bike Wash If:
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You ride in mud, rain, or mixed conditions
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You're bike has grease/grime buildup and needs a deep clean
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You have a good area to rinse your bike
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You want to pair your wash with Chain + Drivetrain Cleaner for a fully reset drivetrain
- Checkout our 2-Minute Tutorial: How to Use Clean Machine Bike Wash
Pro Tip:
Many riders choose to use both—Clean Machine Bike Wash for a deep and complete bike clean, followed by post-ride touch-ups using Quick Clean Express Wash. This combination extends your deep cleaning intervals and keeps your bike protected from the elements.
Do I Need Any Other Bike Care Products?
For complete care, pair them with:
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Speed Clean Chain + Drivetrain Cleaner makes drivetrain cleaning quick and easy. Its spray | wait | rinse formulation makes this a perfect pairing with Clean Machine Bike Wash. |
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Ride + Shine Rejuvenator & Protectant is the best way to maximize your bike's beauty and protect against UV rays, water/mud, dust and sweat keeping your bike cleaner longer. The hydrophobic protection dries hard and reduces friction making it an ideal stanchion treatment for ultra-smooth operation. |
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Ultra-Premium Microfiber Cloth is the ideal companion to our wash and protect products. The ultra-soft dual loft design delivers scratch-free results and is perfect for even application and absorbs 12x its weight in water. |




