What is bare minimum to decently take care of a motorcycle?

[Romans5.8]

Just keep in mind that with matte paint, polishing out imperfections is out of the question. So use good microfiber towels on the paint and resist the urge to wipe it down when it gets dusty unless you're using a good QD spray, waterless wash, or otherwise. Swirls and scratches will build up and won't go away without a repaint in the case of a matte finish.

I love waterless washes for my motorcycles.

[Mirror Finish]

For the painted surfaces I use the same Meguiar's professional products that I already have for my cars.

After every day ride, I wipe down the surfaces of my motorcycle with a damp cloth and re-apply Pledge. The bugs come off so much easier. And for the nay sayers, my paint is now in its 24th year and perfect.

As for the engine and chassis, I use Swish Facto AT30 water based degreaser. I've been using it since 1986. It is especially useful for messy chain drive motorcycles.

[WillRyan]

I foam mine down about once a month, with Meguiars Wash & Wax, hose that off with pressure washer, re-foam, and then grab my bucket and mitt with the same solution and wash it down.

In between the month, after every ride, I wipe down with UWW+. You'd be surprised how easy the bugs come off once you keep some protection on it!