How to Maintain Your Motorcycle's Leather Accessories

Saddlebags, tool pouches, tank panels and other leather accessories should be cleaned regularly to maintain their appearance and prolong their usefulness.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Motorcycle Owner's Manual
• Sponges
• Terry Cloth Towels
• Leather Cleaners
• Leather Cleaning Kits
• Leather Conditioners
• Leather Protection Sprays
• Saddle Soaps
• Compressors
• Sponges
• Terry cloth towels

1. Clean your leather accessories at least once a season or more frequently if needed.

2. Vacuum or blow off all the dust on your saddlebags and other accessories before each cleaning. Clean the leather thoroughly with a high quality saddle soap, following all instructions on the label.

3. Rinse the accessories thoroughly with an unsoiled sponge or cloth and water. Allow the leather to dry completely before your next ride.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid using bleach or detergents containing bleach on saddlebags, seats or leather hand grips.
• Refrain from using regular soap to clean your leather. Soap can dry or remove the oils from your accessories.
• Never attempt to dry your leather off quickly with a blow dryer. Allow it to dry naturally at room temperature for optimum appearance.
• Motorcycling is an inherently dangerous activity that can result in serious injury or death. We recommend that you seek proper training and equipment before attempting this activity.

Who Can Help Sponsored

on 11/22/2005 Using petroleum-based products will cause leather to become sticky and hold dirt. It would be better to use products that clean and preserve, like Tandy leather cleaner and Hide Rejuvenator. These may cost more,
but will be better for your leather in the long run.

on 11/22/2005 I've been using Vaseline on all my leather goods for 10 years: shoes, boots, jackets, seats, saddlebags. It keeps them soft, supple and waterproof. It takes a day or so to completely dry enough to wear, but for the cost, a great solution at a great price!

on 6/7/2007 Don't use Armor All on your seat. Although it may look great, it makes the seat very slippery.