Originally Posted by
randyjawa
Soak it in something? Not a chance! You run the risk of destroying the saddle, in my opinion.
the leather is soaked in water to allow it to be formed to shape. BUT, over-soaking will see the tannins from the tanning process dissolve into the water. Minimising the immersion time is important. Also soaking in water will see the leather shrink when it dries, so the release of the tension bolt before soaking is also important, and re-tensioning when dry. Whilst the leather is damp it is easily formed, and can readily stretch, so it needs to be dry before riding.
All these properties are used when I make new leather covers.
all this was dealt with in this thread
https://www.bikeforums.net/classic-v...html?styleid=8
But I can see no need for that treatment for the OP saddle.