Had it since 27 July and to be honest haven't cleaned it at all (expect wiping down the frame) I'm off today and thinking of getting one of them chain baths but i would like to know if its ok to wash the bike with soapy water first u.R
I'd save the soapy water until after you've cleaned the chain. Those chain baths are good at degreasing the chain, but you'll get oily degreaser everywhere. I have one, but I've found that an old toohbrush is as good and not any messier. So if I were you I'd clean the chain first, then clean the bike. Wash the soap off with clean water and dry the chain, before re-lubricating.
An old paint brush with the bristles cut down works well for cleaning the chain and a bit of car shampoo in the bucket of water is kinder to your bike than washing up liquid.
I was gently told off by my LBS for not keeping the rims of my bike clean.... it was making a paste to grind down my wheels apparently. Question is ... how often do you do it, and do you just use a damp rag? I have occasionally given the whole bike a scrub with a bit of Muc Off but I don't have a regular maintenance regime (other than oiling/cleaning the chain).
I give mine a quick spray down with the hose before I put it away, if I've been somewhere dusty or muddy. That's all it takes really. And then give the chain a proper clean every few months.
