Advice & Guides Is your bike kit so manky you’re banned from the house for fear of rubbing grub all over the walls? If you’ve got textile bike kit in need of a freshen up, here’s how to do it without ruining it…
Always used Nikwax for all my waterproof gear. Be it a coat, bike kit or tent. Definitely the best stuff around.
When you spend £650 upwards on a set of motorcycle textiles it’s worth getting the products that will keep them clean and water repellent. Which is precisely what these two do. You just need to remember to rinse out any residue conditioner from your washing machine before hand. This purchase is a replacement as I have been using this for the last 2 years.
I recently used the Nikwax Tech Wash and TX.Direct twin pack on my Rukka suit, and I’m seriously impressed with the results. The Tech Wash did a great job cleaning the gear without stripping away any of the technical properties, which is always a concern with high-end riding kit.
After that, applying the TX.Direct was straightforward, and it really brought the waterproofing back to life. Water now beads off the suit like it did when it was new, and it’s made a noticeable difference riding in wet conditions.
The whole process was easy to follow, and it’s reassuring knowing I can properly maintain my gear at home instead of relying on expensive replacements. Definitely worth it if you want to extend the life and performance of your riding kit.
Seems to work fine though I have not yet had a chance to test under heavy rain. It worked fine under light drizzle
Product cleans and proofs well water now beads of jacket. Took a bit of digging to be sure how to use but not a deal breaker
Tech Wash
Your waterproof clothing and equipment could be soaking up water because the durable water repellency (DWR) has been compromised by dirt, or because it has been cleaned with a conventional laundry detergent. Dirt attracts water and household detergents leave water attracting (hydrophilic) residues, leading to fabric 'wetting out' in wet or damp conditions. If your waterproof clothing or equipment is relatively new, or recently treated with a Nikwax waterproofer, then cleaning with Nikwax Tech Wash will not only remove contaminants, such as dirt and residues left behind by household detergents, but also revitalise DWR.
TX Direct Wash-In
Breathable waterproof garments are most likely to get sweaty and wet inside when used in damp or wet conditions. If the outer fabric absorbs water, the garment can lose up to 70% of its breathability. Therefore, the durable water repellency (DWR) on the outer fabric of your jacket must be maintained to ensure comfort. It will eventually wear off and need to be renewed with Nikwax TX Direct. It is easy and quick to apply in a washing machine, and its highly durable water repellency (DWR) develops on air drying. The washing machine application ensures that the treatment goes right through the garment, treating seams, tapes and cords, as well as the fabric. Specifically designed and optimised for breathable waterproof garments; Nikwax TX Direct leaves a flexible water resistant treatment on individual fibres allowing moisture vapour to pass through, maintaining breathability.
Find it cheaper at any major motorcycle accessory retailer, online or in-store and we‘ll match it.
How to request a price match.