How to Repair Tears in Motorcycle Seats

A blue motorcycle.
  • 2-6 hours
  • Beginner
  • 25-50
What You'll Need
Replacement covering material
3/8 inch staples and staple gun
Measuring tape
Screwdrivers
Scissors or knife
What You'll Need
Replacement covering material
3/8 inch staples and staple gun
Measuring tape
Screwdrivers
Scissors or knife

One of the main problems that occurs with motorcycle seats is that they develop tears and other damage over time. This is to be expected, particularly if you've used and operated the motorcycle for many years. When such a tear occurs in your motorcycle seat, it's important that you first analyze the scope of the problem. For most tears, it will simply be the outside covering of the seat material that has ripped. This is easily fixable by replacing the outside seat material. If the interior portion of the seat has ripped or become damaged, you may need to purchase a new seat entirely. Read on for a brief guide on how to repair a damaged seat cover material piece.

Step 1 - Remove the Damaged Cover

Begin by removing the damaged seat cover. You can do this by first taking all of the connecting staples out of it. These can be removed with some care if you use a screwdriver point. Slide the screwdriver point underneath the staple and pry it off. Be sure not to poke or damage the rest of the interior portion of the seat as you do so. Then, carefully pull the seat cover off of the seat itself.

Step 2 - Measure the Seat

Use the tape measure to determine exactly how much covering material you'll need. Many people choose to wait to purchase the material until after they've measured this out, as high-quality vinyl seat cover material can be somewhat expensive. The seat cover must completely cover up the seat while remaining firm and taut.

Step 3 - Staple the Rear of the New Seat Cover

Begin by stretching the seat cover over the seat itself and gathering it up tight in the rear of the seat. Attach this to the seat material itself by stapling two or three staples securely with the staple gun. Continue to work your way around the outside of the seat, gathering up the seat material close to the foam of the seat as you staple it into place. Make sure that there are no open spaces or areas that are not taut. Be careful that you don't stretch the vinyl material too tight, as this may cause it to wear out or break prematurely as well.

Step 4 - Trim Off Excess Material

Use the scissors to carefully trim off any excess material that may be sitting below the staples on the seat. Do this carefully so as to achieve a smooth, even appearance. You can also tuck the seat cover edges underneath the seat so that you don't notice the staples and the edge of the cover material as well.

All of the materials and equipment that you'll need in order to complete this project can be found either at a local hardware store or at a general auto body repair shop.