PNW Riders

Oly ZX · 06-16-2007, 07:30 PM

Tips, tricks, suggestions?
Picked up some bug remains on trip with Beans, and would like to take care of my new gear so that it lasts.

the chemist · 06-16-2007, 07:33 PM

Ive heard soap and water. Handwashing only....I'm yet to clean mine though so I cant say how it really works

FatMatt · 06-16-2007, 07:40 PM

Wet rag, soap if needed, towel dry when clean.

SiCC · 06-16-2007, 08:21 PM

asked a leather repair shop owner this a few days ago. he suggested that spraying the leathers with the anti water/protectant stuff would help. not only make your stuff water proof, but bugs should slide off somewhat easier.

i use a damp cloth as well. no chems.

jim97801 · 06-16-2007, 08:22 PM

take a 70mph ride in the rain, that will wash the bugs off. Just be sure to keep your leathers on until they are totally dry.

r1eatr · 06-16-2007, 08:28 PM

take a 70mph ride in the rain, that will wash the bugs off. Just be sure to keep your leathers on until they are totally dry.

Tried that, it does not work, I have sprayed my leathers with water repelant and the bugs wipe of pretty well with a damp cloth.

incubus · 06-16-2007, 08:29 PM

Go to wilson's leather. Pick up this white bottleish thing of leather whipes. It's like 9 bucks for 15 wipes I think. They work great! I have a white jacket + they take out all the smudges from my stupid tank pad. Also get some protectant spray stuff as well to spray your leathers with. That stuff helps out quite a bit.

holypiston · 06-16-2007, 08:31 PM

I threw mine in the washing machine w/ woolite. cold water wash. I hear you are supposed to rub in some lanolin before it dries so it doesn't get too dried out. Let air dry.

RVFR · 06-16-2007, 08:38 PM

Dude, warm light soapy water takes em right off. towel dry, then yea if you find it worthy some of that leather conditioning stuff does make the bugs harder to stick..

crashnfool · 06-16-2007, 08:52 PM

UH I always thought you were supposed to get a new set when they got dirty??

JohnnyM · 06-16-2007, 08:53 PM

I got this great stuff that was formulated for woodland firefighters and is made of all natural ingredients. Its called Obenauf's LP (as in Leather Protector). Online at http://www.obenaufs.com or call them and order at 1-888-486-6640.

Gore-Tex approved, maintains waterproof leather and repels water, manure acids, salt, and chemicals. Resists cracking and scuffing, plus can restore dried leather. Stuff kicks serious ass!

Oly ZX · 06-16-2007, 09:04 PM

Thank You. Appreciate all the input!!!

You all rock

Rev · 06-16-2007, 09:05 PM

I don't think I've ever cleaned my leathers and I've had them for 12 years...

incubus · 06-16-2007, 09:10 PM

Originally Posted by JohnnyM

I got this great stuff that was formulated for woodland firefighters and is made of all natural ingredients. Its called Obenauf's LP (as in Leather Protector). Online at http://www.obenaufs.com or call them and order at 1-888-486-6640.

Gore-Tex approved, maintains waterproof leather and repels water, manure acids, salt, and chemicals. Resists cracking and scuffing, plus can restore dried leather. Stuff kicks serious ass!

My g/f works for a hunting/fishing/surplus store + got me some of the heavy duty LP. I use it on my workboots. Maybe I'll try some on the leathers....

Shwaa · 06-16-2007, 09:19 PM

http://www.pnwriders.com/forum/showt...hlight=leather

mjn · 06-16-2007, 09:29 PM

All I gotta say is....you dam well better be a-wearin' some clean leathers on my ride!!!

LOL!!

Oly ZX · 06-16-2007, 10:39 PM

Originally Posted by mjn

All I gotta say is....you dam well better be a-wearin' some clean leathers on my ride!!!

LOL!!

MichaelH · 06-16-2007, 10:46 PM

Originally Posted by incubus

My g/f works for a hunting/fishing/surplus store + got me some of the heavy duty LP. I use it on my workboots. Maybe I'll try some on the leathers....

It's good stuff. I use it on riding boots regularly. Some leathers might not be as color-tight, though, so testing to see if "black" comes off is a good idea.

Plain ordinary saddle soap, as sold in coops and other stores having "tack" leather is probably the best answer. Horse "tack" has been cleaned for decades with saddle soap.

JohnnyM · 06-17-2007, 01:29 AM

Originally Posted by MichaelH

It's good stuff. I use it on riding boots regularly. Some leathers might not be as color-tight, though, so testing to see if "black" comes off is a good idea.

I've never had a problem with the stuff causing any fade or coloration issues. I've used it on black, white, and grey and it works perfectly on all of them. The only issue I've ever seen is when you apply it the leather has a "shine" until the heat of the day or from your body "melts" it in. Personally, I don't really mind having rich shiny looking leather!

BTW- an old firefighters trick when using it on your boots is to stick them in a plastic bag when you're done, tie it off, and set them in the sun for a few hours. It works really well with riding boots and work boots too! When I do my riding gear I hang it in the garage on a warm day (and I wear my textiles)...same effect...works perfectly!

R6Limited · 06-17-2007, 01:33 AM

Just lick it clean like the cows do.

incubus · 06-17-2007, 12:08 PM

Originally Posted by MichaelH

It's good stuff. I use it on riding boots regularly. Some leathers might not be as color-tight, though, so testing to see if "black" comes off is a good idea.

Plain ordinary saddle soap, as sold in coops and other stores having "tack" leather is probably the best answer. Horse "tack" has been cleaned for decades with saddle soap.

If it doesn't come out then I'll use some of those wipes that I have. They work really well at cleaning, but do nothing for protecting it.

Originally Posted by R6Limited

Just lick it clean like the cows do.

Won't you get grass stains then...?

R6Limited · 06-17-2007, 12:12 PM

Originally Posted by incubus

Won't you get grass stains then...?

Maybe on your tongue. But its good for ya.

Mithras · 06-01-2008, 10:10 PM

Originally Posted by JohnnyM

I got this great stuff that was formulated for woodland firefighters and is made of all natural ingredients. Its called Obenauf's LP (as in Leather Protector). Online at http://www.obenaufs.com or call them and order at 1-888-486-6640.

Gore-Tex approved, maintains waterproof leather and repels water, manure acids, salt, and chemicals. Resists cracking and scuffing, plus can restore dried leather. Stuff kicks serious ass!

Be careful not to apply too much obenaufs...and you apply it with your bare hands not a cloth. Whistle workwear has a contract with obenauf's so you can get it really cheap. It's a natural wax protectant so make sure your leathers are clean before you apply.

El_Diablo · 06-01-2008, 10:25 PM

Originally Posted by r1eatr

Tried that, it does not work, I have sprayed my leathers with water repelant and the bugs wipe of pretty well with a damp cloth.

I went 90mph in the rain yesterday to test this theory and it didn't completely clean them but there is definitely alot less bugs.

JohnnyM · 06-01-2008, 10:35 PM

Originally Posted by Mithras

Be careful not to apply too much obenaufs...and you apply it with your bare hands not a cloth. Whistle workwear has a contract with obenauf's so you can get it really cheap. It's a natural wax protectant so make sure your leathers are clean before you apply.

I've never heard anything about using hands and not a cloth...in fact I was told to use a clean dry non-colored cloth or non abrasive sponge. Pretty much anything you would use to rub wax onto and off of your bike will work.

You're right about applying too much...several light coats with exposure to heat (body or otherwise) in between is better than one heavy one. Every other year apply some to the inside of the leather too (if you can get at it and a liner isn't in the way) and your leathers will last a loooooong time!

Oh, and my last trip to the Tri-Cities I noticed our very own site sponsor "Full Throttle" carries it!

I highly recommend stopping by or giving them a call...

crashnfool · 06-01-2008, 11:01 PM

Holy thread revival Batman!!

Mithras · 06-01-2008, 11:14 PM

Originally Posted by JohnnyM

I've never heard anything about using hands and not a cloth...in fact I was told to use a clean dry non-colored cloth or non abrasive sponge. Pretty much anything you would use to rub wax onto and off of your bike will work.

You're right about applying too much...several light coats with exposure to heat (body or otherwise) in between is better than one heavy one. Every other year apply some to the inside of the leather too (if you can get at it and a liner isn't in the way) and your leathers will last a loooooong time!

Oh, and my last trip to the Tri-Cities I noticed our very own site sponsor "Full Throttle" carries it!

I highly recommend stopping by or giving them a call...

I'm using Sprayway Glass Cleaner to clean my leathers. It's the foam spray cleaner you buy at costco in 4-packs. It's making my white leathers white again and the smell is rather nice.

I'm not treating my leathers with wax until I notice they're getting slightly dry. When you wax leather it's just going to attract dirt and pollen.

I used to be a firefighter so from applying about 5 large containers of obenauf's over the years I can say that using your skin is best and you have to have warm hands to maintain a thin film and not chunks. You can apply it by cloth if you want but you're just wasting product and it will most likely be thicker than is necessary. After the wax is allowed to set in try buffing it off just like you buff wax off a car.

If you buy some boots at whistle workwear they will throw in a small container of the stuff for free.

Mithras · 06-01-2008, 11:15 PM

Originally Posted by crashnfool

Holy thread revival Batman!!

I used the google advanced search feature to look up ways to clean my leathers. Just bought a used two piece race suit and it's covered in bug guts. No reason to let good threads die...

HornetR1 · 06-02-2008, 12:34 AM

your supposed to clean your leathers??? *scratches head

3cYlinders_oF_fuRy · 06-02-2008, 12:50 AM

Originally Posted by El_Diablo

I went 90mph in the rain yesterday to test this theory and it didn't completely clean them but there is definitely alot less bugs.

thats clean enough for me

Mithras · 06-02-2008, 01:24 AM

Originally Posted by HornetR1

your supposed to clean your leathers??? *scratches head

hmm...well I like the sheen of my white icon merc jacket to bedazzle the wee lasses where-upon they will become totally smitten and follow me home.

The bug guts seem to turn them off no matter how many times I remind them of the added benefits of protein...and they usually fall for that one...what gives???!!!

I just bought a used set of leathers from another guy and no matter how much I appreciate the deal...I don't need the coating on the outside or inside to stay part of the bargain. I'll "season" them myself after I clean them.

r6on1 · 06-02-2008, 10:35 AM

I would just use simple green dilluted half and half. works pretty good for me. i also put a protectant on it.

THE FLAMING LIPPS · 06-02-2008, 10:57 AM

Wilsons leather cleaner.

holypiston · 06-02-2008, 12:04 PM

This looks interesting.

http://www.smartpakequine.com/produc...ctClassid=5264

Mithras · 06-02-2008, 12:14 PM

Originally Posted by holypiston

This looks interesting.

http://www.smartpakequine.com/produc...ctClassid=5264

Yes...interesting. The only reason I wouldn't use it is because it involves soaking your leathers in water. (try that with a pair of old work gloves sometime and see how they turn out when they dry.) While that might work for high grade saddle leather and reins those high quality leathers aren't used in the manufacture of motorcycle jackets. (Don't care to spend thousands on a jacket) Also most motorcycle jackets are dyed...not tanned dark brown so who knows what it might "clean" off.

I'm going with the glass cleaner because it basically uses amonia with an incredibly small amout of soap and fragrance. If my leathers get at all dry they're going to get a light waxing of obenauf's or a leather clothing sealer.

HornetR1 · 06-02-2008, 12:20 PM

Originally Posted by Mithras

hmm...well I like the sheen of my white icon merc jacket to bedazzle the wee lasses where-upon they will become totally smitten and follow me home.

The bug guts seem to turn them off no matter how many times I remind them of the added benefits of protein...and they usually fall for that one...what gives???!!!

I just bought a used set of leathers from another guy and no matter how much I appreciate the deal...I don't need the coating on the outside or inside to stay part of the bargain. I'll "season" them myself after I clean them.

my wife keeps hers spotless!! I havent cleaned mine since ive had the 1

r6on1 · 06-02-2008, 12:58 PM

Originally Posted by Mithras

Yes...interesting. The only reason I wouldn't use it is because it involves soaking your leathers in water. (try that with a pair of old work gloves sometime and see how they turn out when they dry.) While that might work for high grade saddle leather and reins those high quality leathers aren't used in the manufacture of motorcycle jackets. (Don't care to spend thousands on a jacket) Also most motorcycle jackets are dyed...not tanned dark brown so who knows what it might "clean" off.

I'm going with the glass cleaner because it basically uses amonia with an incredibly small amout of soap and fragrance. If my leathers get at all dry they're going to get a light waxing of obenauf's or a leather clothing sealer.

i do upholstery for a living. If you soak the leather in the first place, you are doing it wrong. you simply apply, rub and wipe it clean. We have different chemicals that we use here at the shop, but they aren't available to the public. We buy them in 5 gallon containers. The protectant that i use is Rolite premium protectant. it works really well. Just to let you know, glass cleaner has alcohal in it which can and definitely will dry out your jacket over time.

Mic · 06-02-2008, 01:34 PM

Originally Posted by JohnnyM

I got this great stuff that was formulated for woodland firefighters and is made of all natural ingredients. Its called Obenauf's LP (as in Leather Protector). Online at http://www.obenaufs.com or call them and order at 1-888-486-6640.

Gore-Tex approved, maintains waterproof leather and repels water, manure acids, salt, and chemicals. Resists cracking and scuffing, plus can restore dried leather. Stuff kicks serious ass!

LOL, I came into this thread to post up Obenaufs. Been using it for years and years. Stuff is amazing, and always has been.

Definitely the best products on the market for leather care.

Mithras · 06-02-2008, 01:47 PM

Originally Posted by JohnnyM

I've never heard anything about using hands and not a cloth...in fact I was told to use a clean dry non-colored cloth or non abrasive sponge. Pretty much anything you would use to rub wax onto and off of your bike will work.

You're right about applying too much...several light coats with exposure to heat (body or otherwise) in between is better than one heavy one. Every other year apply some to the inside of the leather too (if you can get at it and a liner isn't in the way) and your leathers will last a loooooong time!

Oh, and my last trip to the Tri-Cities I noticed our very own site sponsor "Full Throttle" carries it!

I highly recommend stopping by or giving them a call...

Direct Quote from Obenauf's website:

"Applying Obenauf's LP is easy, just rub it into damp or dry leather with your hands. It's natural and temperature sensitive so body temperature will melt it."

Oh boy...I feel so proud of myself now... I think I'm going to go finger some wax.

Mithras · 06-02-2008, 01:55 PM

Originally Posted by r6on1

i do upholstery for a living. If you soak the leather in the first place, you are doing it wrong. you simply apply, rub and wipe it clean. We have different chemicals that we use here at the shop, but they aren't available to the public. We buy them in 5 gallon containers. The protectant that i use is Rolite premium protectant. it works really well. Just to let you know, glass cleaner has alcohal in it which can and definitely will dry out your jacket over time.

Well stated...

Upon further review I was wrong about the amonia in the costco glass cleaner;

http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product...e=1&lang=en-US

so it might be some alcohol blend. I'll be careful about how many times I use it without then coating the leather in protectant/revitalizer. If you have any products you'd like to professionally endorse to now is the time.


06-16-2007, 07:30 PM	#1
Oly ZX Daytime Adventure Seeker Joined: Jan 2006 From: Olympia,Wa. Blog Entries: 2 I Ride: '04 ZX12 '05 ZX10	Cleaning Leathers? Tips, tricks, suggestions? Picked up some bug remains on trip with Beans, and would like to take care of my new gear so that it lasts. __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


06-16-2007, 07:33 PM	#2
the chemist ducatiduane Joined: Feb 2007 From: Cheney I Ride: but not on the street.	Ive heard soap and water. Handwashing only....I'm yet to clean mine though so I cant say how it really works __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


06-16-2007, 07:40 PM	#3
FatMatt MotoGP Contender Joined: Feb 2006 From: Dri-Shities, WA I Ride: GSX-R's	Wet rag, soap if needed, towel dry when clean. __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


06-16-2007, 08:21 PM	#4
SiCC MotoGP Contender Joined: Apr 2006 From: Gig Harbor Isle I Ride: GSXR750, F4750	asked a leather repair shop owner this a few days ago. he suggested that spraying the leathers with the anti water/protectant stuff would help. not only make your stuff water proof, but bugs should slide off somewhat easier. i use a damp cloth as well. no chems. __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


06-16-2007, 08:22 PM	#5
jim97801 WMRRA Qualifier Joined: Feb 2007 From: pendleton, OR I Ride: Only In My Dreams Now	take a 70mph ride in the rain, that will wash the bugs off. Just be sure to keep your leathers on until they are totally dry. __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter

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06-16-2007, 08:29 PM	#7
incubus MotoGP Contender Joined: Mar 2007 From: Everett....again I Ride: SV650S (full fairing)	Go to wilson's leather. Pick up this white bottleish thing of leather whipes. It's like 9 bucks for 15 wipes I think. They work great! I have a white jacket + they take out all the smudges from my stupid tank pad. Also get some protectant spray stuff as well to spray your leathers with. That stuff helps out quite a bit. __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


06-16-2007, 08:31 PM	#8
holypiston Superbiker Joined: Oct 2006 From: Vanquiver, WA I Ride: RD400F Daytonut	I threw mine in the washing machine w/ woolite. cold water wash. I hear you are supposed to rub in some lanolin before it dries so it doesn't get too dried out. Let air dry. __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


06-16-2007, 08:38 PM	#9
RVFR Pilot in Command Joined: Dec 2005 From: Olympia, WA Blog Entries: 11 I Ride: Honda............Ducati?	Dude, warm light soapy water takes em right off. towel dry, then yea if you find it worthy some of that leather conditioning stuff does make the bugs harder to stick.. __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


06-16-2007, 08:52 PM	#10
crashnfool Zone Head Joined: Feb 2007 From: olympia,Wa Blog Entries: 2 I Ride: into stuff!!	UH I always thought you were supposed to get a new set when they got dirty?? __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


06-16-2007, 08:53 PM	#11
JohnnyM MotoGP Champion Joined: Jul 2006 From: Pullman, WA I Ride: '73 CB350F, '86 VFR750F, '00 Aprilia RS250, '04 Aprilia RSV1000 R Factory, '04 Aprilia RSV1000 R Factory, '07 Vstar 1100 Classic	I got this great stuff that was formulated for woodland firefighters and is made of all natural ingredients. Its called Obenauf's LP (as in Leather Protector). Online at http://www.obenaufs.com or call them and order at 1-888-486-6640. Gore-Tex approved, maintains waterproof leather and repels water, manure acids, salt, and chemicals. Resists cracking and scuffing, plus can restore dried leather. Stuff kicks serious ass! __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter Last edited by JohnnyM; 06-16-2007 at 08:57 PM..


06-16-2007, 09:04 PM	#12
Oly ZX Daytime Adventure Seeker Joined: Jan 2006 From: Olympia,Wa. Blog Entries: 2 I Ride: '04 ZX12 '05 ZX10	Thank You. Appreciate all the input!!! You all rock __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


06-16-2007, 09:05 PM	#13
Rev Zone Head Joined: Nov 2006 From: Olympia, WA I Ride: 1994 VFR	I don't think I've ever cleaned my leathers and I've had them for 12 years... __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


06-16-2007, 09:19 PM	#15
Shwaa Forum Leader Joined: May 2005 From: 808	http://www.pnwriders.com/forum/showt...hlight=leather __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


06-16-2007, 09:29 PM	#16
mjn Moderator Joined: Jul 2005 From: Tri-Cities Blog Entries: 1 I Ride: In search of the next 35mph corner......	All I gotta say is....you dam well better be a-wearin' some clean leathers on my ride!!! LOL!! __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


06-17-2007, 01:33 AM	#20
R6Limited MotoGP Contender Joined: Jun 2006 From: Tacoma I Ride: a fine line	Just lick it clean like the cows do. __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


06-01-2008, 11:01 PM	#26
crashnfool Zone Head Joined: Feb 2007 From: olympia,Wa Blog Entries: 2 I Ride: into stuff!!	Holy thread revival Batman!! __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


06-02-2008, 12:34 AM	#29
HornetR1 Endorsed Joined: May 2008 From: Montreal QC, From Vancouver Wa I Ride: 2006 YZF R1 fiddy-ith	your supposed to clean your leathers??? scratches head __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter*


06-02-2008, 10:35 AM	#32
r6on1 Pit Crew Joined: Jul 2007 From: Yakivegas, Washington I Ride: 2004 R6	I would just use simple green dilluted half and half. works pretty good for me. i also put a protectant on it. __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


06-02-2008, 10:57 AM	#33
THE FLAMING LIPPS WMRRA Qualifier Joined: Apr 2008 From: Burien,WA I Ride: '04 CBR 1000rr '93 VFR750F '74 CT90 k4	Wilsons leather cleaner. __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


06-02-2008, 12:04 PM	#34
holypiston Superbiker Joined: Oct 2006 From: Vanquiver, WA I Ride: RD400F Daytonut	This looks interesting. http://www.smartpakequine.com/produc...ctClassid=5264 __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter

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