Seats, saddles and leatherwork on motorcycles

A motorcycle seat is one of the most visible parts of the bike. Bad foam, cracked vinyl or a sagging cover spoils an otherwise excellent restoration.

Strip and inspect. Remove the seat pan from the bike and strip off the old cover. Inspect the pan for rust, dents and cracks. Repair or replace it before you fit new foam.

Foam and base. Most original foam collapses over time. Bond a new block of high-density foam to the pan and shape it to the correct profile. Keep the profile faithful to the original — modern bulbous shapes look wrong on classic bikes.

Cover material. Choose original-pattern vinyl, leather or synthetic leather. Get a sample first and check the grain and colour against the original. Some bikes need a specific ribbed or basket-weave pattern.

Stitching and binding. Use the correct thread, binding and piped edges. A good trimmer will replicate the original seams, pleats and badges. Ask to see photographs of their previous bike work.

Panniers and tool rolls. Do not forget leather panniers, gaiters, tool rolls and tank pads. Treat leather with a good conditioner and keep it dry to stop it cracking.