Slip 'n' slide saddle

[lauraelmore1033]

I have a Rivet leather saddle on our tandem. It worked pretty well last summer, but this summer it has become super slick and shiny, I'm guessing from the consistent application of chamois lube, and I can't seem to stay put on it. The tandem is a custom made bike, and I've had a professional fitting from one of the best fitters in Seattle, so I know the sliding isn't because of improper placement of the saddle. Is there something I can put on the saddle to make it a little less slidey without ruining the finish? any pointers from you leather lovers?

[lauraelmore1033]

Ok, that seems like a good idea! I wonder if murphy's oil soap would do the trick.

[Wasp]

If your sure the issue is caused by chamois lube I would try a degreaser. Try wiping the saddle with simple green on a cloth and see what happens. I have used simple green on my leather saddle to remove grease marks which worked well without damaging the leather. I took a wet cloth afterwards to remove any residual simple green.

[lauraelmore1033]

I'm not actually sure that is the issue, but that saddle is like glass now and it didn't come that way. Cleansing or degreasing sound like the way to go. Funny that didn't occur to me first. I was actually considering putting something sticky on the seat

[salsabike]

You might just want to email Deb Banks directly and ask her, too.

[lauraelmore1033]

Thanks Salsabike, I just did that!

[Sky King]

Will be curious to hear Deb's thoughts. The nice thing about leather saddles is they can be slippery so less pressure points. If cleaning doesn't help, personally I would tip the nose up a hair - if you are sliding off the front that is. If you are sliding off the back, I'd move the saddle back. I know you had a fit but there is always room for micro adjustments. Also Deb says no need to treat your Rivet leather with anything so perhaps wiping it clean after every ride with a damp cloth. keep us posted

[lauraelmore1033]

Just heard from Deb who says a mild degreaser should be just fine. She also suggested I re tension the saddle (but I think the tension is pretty good)and maybe use less chamois butter. It occurs to me that I first noticed the problem with slipperiness was when I started using a dry powder lube from monistat (and have since stopped using) so maybe a gentle cleansing of that residue will do the trick.