Leather or Vinyl : V-Twin Forum: Harley Davidson Forums

Rocker · 10-03-2008, 09:50 PM

What are the pros and cons of leather vs vinyl seat covers?

kustom_flames · 10-03-2008, 09:59 PM

I think you'll find some of the vinyls to be as good (if not better) as leather these days...some types called naughahyde have grains and look very similar to real leather, will be extremely durable, and usually less expensive than leather, and easier to maintain...plus the vegetarians will thank ya...

Misterb · 10-03-2008, 09:59 PM

Vinyl holds up better to water and sun, but it also makes you more likely to sweat. It also doesn't look or feel as nice as real leather.

If you park your bike outside quite a bit, you should probably go with vinyl. Otherwise, I like leather all the way.

kustom_flames · 10-03-2008, 10:09 PM

Some of the newer vinyl (naughahyde) looks and feels alot like leather...but then you still have the older 'vinyl' that does not...

Gerg · 10-04-2008, 12:01 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kustom_flames

Some of the newer vinyl (naughahyde) looks and feels alot like leather...but then you still have the older 'vinyl' that does not...

Leather breathes, vinyl doesn't. Leather absorbs moisture, vinyl doesn't. The same properties that make leather a good choice also make it a poor one for wet riding or setting outside.

If you're religous about putting a cover on when it's outside or raining they will last a long time, don't and they're trashed in a couple of years.

ChromeWelder · 10-11-2008, 09:29 PM

Leather breaths better and it's cooler in the summer and it's warmer in the winter.

It takes a lot more maintenance and care....but it's worth it for me.

Good Luck...

mungo · 10-12-2008, 06:58 AM

I personally like leather - however - get caught in the rain and it literally takes a day or two to dry out before you can hop on it and keep dry pants.

If you do go with leather, find a good oil to keep on the seat and never let that maintenance slip.

Rocker · 10-12-2008, 12:07 PM

Thanks for the replys. I am having my seat rebuilt this winter and it also needs a new seat cover. I am going with the leather for the breathing qualities as most of my riding is long distance and except when riding is always parked in the garage. I'll make sure I carry my bike cover and may also look for a seat cover. If there are any suggestions on where to buy a good seat cover I would appreciate it.

Buddha4 · 10-12-2008, 03:53 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mungo

I personally like leather - however - get caught in the rain and it literally takes a day or two to dry out before you can hop on it and keep dry pants.

If you do go with leather, find a good oil to keep on the seat and never let that maintenance slip.

It all depends on the hide. I have elephant hide on seat and have had no problems after almost 25K miles on the seat. ironically you're gator/stingrays tend to absorb more moisture than the larger "land animals".