This is something most every biker has an opinion on… I’ve met way more people who wash their bikes than don’t, and I’ve asked multiple mechanics their feelings on it. Most everyone seems to agree that washing it isn’t a big deal.
I think its better to avoid bad washing techniques than washing all together. My general approach is this….
*Use water sparingly. Don’t power wash.
*I use car soap diluted in water on the drivetrain and a dish brush to scrub
* rinse soon after scrubbing and towel dry the frame & fork.
*Let the drive train air dry then re-lube.