Caring for Your Leather Motorcycle Gear

Leather is one of the most popular materials for motorcycle gear because it offers both protection and style. Leather clothes, such as jackets, can make you feel more confident on your ride by making other riders notice how cool you look while also protecting you from the hazards of the road. But like anything else, if the leather gear is not taken care of properly, then it’ll wear down quickly due to everyday use. We've created this beginner's guide to caring for leather motorcycle gear, so read on to learn more.

Cleaning and Conditioning

Leather is a natural fiber, so it tends to absorb the things it comes in contact with, from the sweat on your skin to the kicked-up road debris. To keep your leather in top condition, it’s essential to clean it regularly. Conditioning is also important for putting essential oils back into the leather, which have been stripped out with regular use and washing. Apply natural oils, like linseed oil and castor oil, on leather with a clean sponge. Let it sit for a few minutes, and then wipe any excess oil and buff the surface until it has a soft sheen.

Treating Faded Color

The natural colors of leather motorcycle gear can fade over time, which is caused by a layer of dirt getting in the way of letting the color shine through. Luckily, the fading is usually not permanent and you can easily restore the colors. Use leather shampoo and a soft brush to remove stains from your jacket. Next, condition your leather to prevent it from breaking down and cracking. Try to do this process once every two months, unless you notice dirt build-up sooner due to more frequent riding.

We hope that these tips help you take proper care of your leather motorcycle gear. If you have any questions or want to check out motorcycles for sale, visit St. Charles Harley-Davidson®. We are located in St. Charles, MO, and we serve all those in St. Louis and St. Peters.