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Singlespeed & Fixed Gear - Free is always nice.

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patthepunk

01-22-11, 09:26 AM

Im going to be getting my hands on an old Raleigh 10 speed later today. Im not sure if I want to convert it yet, but it seems promising either way. It has an old Brook's saddle from the 80's-early 90's on it. I looked at it yesterday, and the seat is kind of hard, and stiff. So is there anyway I can soften up the leather on it? Or is it a lost cause at this point?

Pics to come.
:)

seau grateau

01-22-11, 10:02 AM

I've used a leather conditioner called Lexol to this effect. Worked pretty well.

patthepunk

01-22-11, 10:03 AM

Is that the same treatment for shoes? Because I do own like shoe conditioner, not sure if that will work to well however.

seau grateau

01-22-11, 10:06 AM

It is made for shoes, yeah.

Das Stig

01-22-11, 10:09 AM

It is made for shoes, yeah.

It's really known as an automotive product, but in my experience as a detailer it works great.

seau grateau

01-22-11, 10:12 AM

Well it was sold to me as a boot product, haha. Anyway I used it to soften up a crusty old Norex saddle and a few light coats did wonders.

striknein

01-22-11, 10:18 AM

Just get some Proofide from your LBS and apply it regularly. It might take a few weeks, but it'll soften up.

Some products can cause the leather to get too soft, and when you tension the leather up after it starts to sag, it can tear through the rivets.

patthepunk

01-22-11, 10:32 AM

Ok, Ill see what I have, and I will also check out my LBS, and see if they can help me out.

PlattsVegas

01-22-11, 12:58 PM

I converted a Raleigh ten speed from the early 70's. I ride it as a fixed gear, and I love it. Unless the original drivetrain parts are in great condition, I would recommend converting.

blickblocks

01-22-11, 01:11 PM

Pics when you get it

?

patthepunk

01-22-11, 05:45 PM

Yeah, Pics are coming tonight. We actually already converted it into a SS, with parts that I had laying around. It looks "OK". Some rust spots, but we touched it up with some paint, and will replace the bar tape and tires/tubes soon.

patthepunk

01-22-11, 06:35 PM

http://i.imgur.com/jZQU5.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/VKSXP.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/NR36r.jpg

Disregard the electrical tape in the bars and the miss matched rims/tires

europa

01-22-11, 06:57 PM

I'll add my vote for the Proofide - that's what has been designed for these saddles and it will soften up your old girl.

Nice bike. Should be a goodun.

patthepunk

01-22-11, 07:18 PM

noted!

And thanks! It rides very smoothly.