We originally purchased a Worx Hydroshot portable power washer for use in the Material Post at cyclo-cross events without a close water supply. The ability to pull water from a bucket (rather than a pressured source) was a critical feature. What we have found it is also a handy tool for home use as well.
Cleaning up road grit and grime during the warmer months is pretty easy to do with a bucket and brush or garden hose. But when the weather turns more foul (and that garden hose is put away for the winter), or the bike is extra mucky, this tool offers a speedy alternative. As a bonus, for apartment dwellers that may not have easy access to a spigot, the unit is portable to an appropriate location.
There have been several versions of the Hydroshot since it’s introduction. We chose the 450 Max psi, 40V model. There are two power settings, we generally use the gentle, but the max is there when more push is needed. And an obvious caveat, don’t spray directly into bearings on any setting.
The pressure nozzle has 4 settings as well. You can keep your spray pattern tight or wide.
We pair our Hydroshot with a 5 gallon bucket and the 20 foot hose. You’ll get about 20 minutes of cleaning time on low. Water usage at the high setting is still less than a gallon per minute.
While the system is 40V, it’s actually driven by two 20V batteries that are easy to attach and detach. Charging is fairly rapid, but if you’re using the unit a lot (like at an all day CX race) you’ll want to purchase extra batteries.
Running warm tap water is fine for the washer and ideal for winter cleaning.
You’ll still need to do wipe down and lubrication after usage, but the Hydroshot gives a nice head start to the dirty work.
Retails around $200 US