Ah, yes. The Wait. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/lol.gif" alt="" />

I'd clean the visible surfaces best. If you have the hubs off and disassembled, use a fine steel wool and WD40 to clean up loose bits. A good cleaning in solvent to remove the WD40 and you're about ready. Krylon sells a spray epoxy is several colors. I used some red to create a candy finish on a Schwinn bike many many many years ago.

Your suggestion of clear is good for this. Make sure to leave adequate cure time between coats. Warm and sunny day on an asphalt paved surface can act like a kiln, too.