Installing saddlebag fringe

Congratulations on the new fringe. Installation is straightforward and should take around 30 minutes — but don't rush, because once the cement grabs, it grabs.

What you'll need

We include a tube of Barge All Purpose Cement in your shipment. It's the most popular adhesive of shoemakers, and it works beautifully on leather-to-leather and leather-to-vinyl applications. Other contact cement, Goop, or any quality leather adhesive will work too.

Decide on placement

Each fringe cover is one piece, approximately 38 inches long. The fringe portion begins below a half-inch to one-inch solid strip at the top. Most riders lift the lid of the saddlebag and install the fringe at the top of the saddlebag opening.

Drape the fringe beneath the lid and around the saddlebag to see how it'll look. Decide where you want the placement before you reach for the cement.

Glue it down

Carefully spread a moderate coat of contact cement around the saddlebag where the fringe will go. A Q-tip or two makes this easier. Apply a moderate bead to the top of the fringe where it'll attach to the saddlebag.

Wait 7–10 minutes for the glue to get tacky. Then start at one end of the fringe — press it firmly against the saddlebag, working the cover around until the entire length is pressed against the bag.

Caution: the glue is tacky enough that where it touches, it sticks. If you line it up wrong, peel that portion off and lay it straight. It should stick just as well the second time if you re-press immediately. If it doesn't, reapply a little contact cement and continue.

Cure

Let the bond cure for two hours before showing off the new bags.