Spartan Leather Work
Ever since the very first motorcycles took to the road, there’s been an organic material intrinsically linked not only with the machines themselves, but the attire of the riders.
Whatever the source of the original hide, leather has been of great importance, not just in providing protective clothing in jackets, trousers, gloves and boots, but also in the creation of the bike itself.
Initially leather belts were used to drive the rear wheel, and even leather blocks used in brake pads, while leather grips gave something to hold on to, and seats had a durable leather cover.
Indeed, leather is still used to cover seats, and also used for saddlebags, tool rolls and battery covers and, with it being an organic material, it needs to be looked after, much in the same way as more durable materials such as polished aluminium and chrome.
Fortunately, there are people who specialise in repairing, replacing and maintaining leather components, with Spartan Leather Work being a prime example.
Spartan Leather Work is a bespoke service for both bikers and their bikes, with Tim Coles and Caroline having had close to a combined 80 years in and around bikes.
While much of the business is for bespoke parts such as tooled saddlebags and tool rolls, the company has now started the refurbing of the old English saddles in leather, whereby you drop off your saddle and for £150 you get it back with the base being blasted and re-coated, the horse hair padding replaced, and a new leather cover made and fitted.
They are regular exhibitors at Rufforth Park autojumble on the first Saturday of the month, and if you’re wanting to have your saddle refurbished then you can drop it off with them at Rufforth and pick up the following month, or go to the workshop in Norton and see for yourself where its made and have a brew if you want to go along and see them.
They also make other one-off items like the tool box covers fitted to many bikes in the past, as well as belts, wallets, guitar straps etc.
All of the hide used is chosen specifically for the intended purpose, then cut and worked by hand, even down to any of the tooling designs that the prospective customer may desire. The finished item is dyed and fed, before being ready for sale. Leatherwork is a fascinating art, and a leather tool bag, seat cover, grips or battery case makes for a long-lasting, durable and aesthetically-pleasing part of your treasured classic bike.
Details can be found on the website on social media at www. facebook.com/spartanleatherwork or by calling 07767 226778.