There are various kinds of leather saddlebags. The three major categories used to classify the leather used for making saddlebags are split, vegetable and chrome leather motorcycle saddlebags. Although they are very different from each other, the method used for taking care of them is very similar.

Like any other object, proper care and maintenance is needed for leather saddlebags to last. Below is a step by step guide in cleaning them.

Step 1:

You must start cleaning your saddlebags in a well-ventilated area. This is a wise idea because you will be using dangerous chemicals which are included in the cleaning solutions. If you can, do your cleaning outdoors where there is enough sunlight. It will also be best if you use a mild cleaning solution as to not deteriorate the quality and color of the saddlebag. You can also add water to the cleaning solution to dilute it. To ensure that the cleaning solution that you will be using is ideal for your leather saddlebag, try it by cleaning the back of the saddlebag first and see the results.

Step 2:

Conditioning is the next step in taking care of your saddlebags. This method does not have to be done all the time. You can do this every two weeks. The process of conditioning will involve lubricating the saddlebags. This will maintain the flexibility and softness of the bag. You should avoid using petroleum products because this can ruin the leather.

Step 3:

The third step is to polish your saddlebags. This will help it look brand new. Just remember not to overdo it because you can clog the pours of the leather. You should also avoid using petroleum products that can ruin the leather overtime rather than making it last. Use conditioners instead that can actually penetrate the fibers. When polishing the motorcycle saddlebags, make sure that you spread the cream evenly and thinly in every part. Polishing is done to make your saddlebags stand out and look more attractive.

Step 4:

The last stage is to use a water protector to avoid watermarks from being left on the surface by rain. This can block the water from being absorbed in the leather that can possibly damage it. This is done through applying a mink oil or silicone spray. This can also help the saddlebags look cleaner for a longer period of time.

Just remember never to place the saddlebags in front of a heated zone to dry because this will cause the oil be absorbed in the bag and dry out. You can also use saddlebag rain covers which are very useful if you are planning to travel long miles.

Leather saddlebags are useful equipment that you can use to organize and store your things effectively. Because they are very beneficial for motorcycle riders, it is essential that you spend some time in taking care of them appropriately. All it needs is a little time and effort on your part to ensure that these will last for a long time. By going through the four steps above, you can safely take care of your saddlebags so it can also take care of your stuff.

One of the most essential accessories of a motorcycle is a motorcycle saddlebag. Saddle bags are used to carry items that cannot be placed in a biker’s pocket or luggage. One can put jackets, clothes, refreshments and even helmets depending on the size of the bags. Many of these saddlebags are made from nylon while others are made of leather. Motorcycle Luggage made of nylon is cheaper compared to leather saddlebags. However, most bikers prefer to buy leather saddlebags not only because they are very durable, but also because they are low-maintenance and stylish at the same time. Leather motorcycle saddlebags match the leather accessories of the bike plus the leather clothes riders usually wear for long journeys.

Before buying a motorcycle saddlebag, consider first how big your budget is. Normally, the price of these bags range from 200 to 500 dollars. The price depends on what type of motorcycle luggage you are eyeing. First off, refrain from purchasing from showrooms no matter how good they look. Certified motorcycle riders say that these showrooms tend to charge you more than what the item is really worth in the first place. The same goes with some motorcycle dealerships. More often than not, they don’t even provide saddlebags made from authentic leather. You may visit your nearest motorcycle accessories store for cheaper yet heavy-duty leather saddlebags.

The primary thing to consider when buying a saddlebag is to see how it is mounted. There are two ways of mounting motorcycle luggage The first type is the throw-over saddlebags. Throw-over saddlebags are mounted by fastening the strings under the shocks and the seats of a motorcycle. This type of saddlebag is cheaper and much easier to install than the bolt-on saddlebags. Bolt-on saddlebags, on the other hand, are more secure than the throw-over kind. Using a mounting hardware, it is secured by screwing it to any strong part of the motorcycle.

When you’re done deciding which type of saddlebag you want to purchase, the next thing to look for is the lock. See to it that your bags have locks to protect your belonging. Choose lockable saddlebags that have buckles instead of snap-ons. This would discourage robbers to steal the things inside your saddlebag, as it would take time before they can fully open the motorcycle storage. You may also opt to buy a lock with quick-release buckles. With this, it would be easier for you to open your leather saddlebags. Make sure though that it is not so obvious so as to prevent burglary on your motorcycle compartment. Quick-release buckles are usually hidden under the straps of the leather saddlebags.

Leather, although it is a very durable material, may tend to sag after prolonged use. This is a result from the changing of climate such as exposure to heat, rain and alike. It should be reinforced using a metal frame that would strengthen your leather saddlebags and prevent it from sagging. Ergo, check if the metal used in reinforcing your leather saddlebags are made from stainless steel. Don’t purchase it if the reinforcements are only made from brass. After two months or so, brass would rust and that would stain on the interior or exterior of your saddlebags.

The last thing to think of when buying leather saddlebags [http://www.motorcyclepartsandapparel.com/motorcycle-saddle-bags-edge-leather-motorcycle-saddlebags.html] and other motorcycle accessories is the style. Although leather saddlebags usually come in black, motorcycle accessories stores offer more than that. Pick a color that would fit the rest of your motorcycle leather accessories. Some bags have studs while others have fringes. Nowadays, there are pouch-like leather saddle bags out in the market. These saddlebags are perfectly tailored for female bikers. Most of these styles are made to match classic looking motorcycles. You can see more choices on different online stores. Make sure that they have a return policy in case the quality of their merchandise did not pass your standards.