The Handlebar Club Forum

I've thought of trying various gels that are sold to kids to spike their hair. My wife went to a hairdresser and got a sample for me but it was much too soft. I'd hate to buy a large tin of something, use it once, and then be stuck with it. (I still have five tubes of Brother's Love to go through.)

Hallo, chaps - as it happens, of late I have gently tinkered with the formula of Bounder to make it easier to apply whilst still drying off to grip like hell. Noticing how many of my customers get it (and other brands of wax) out of the tin, I'm going to be changing the packaging to clearly advise using the back of a thumbnail to scoop out the desired amount before using finger and thumb to apply. Plenty of users rub a fingertip on the surface of the wax until they have acquired enough to use and it's clear that by the time it makes it near the whiskers, it is already half-dried and super-sticky. I think this is not a bad technique with the usual beeswax/Vaseline formulas of many waxes as it helps to warm and soften it but for an emulsion-based one like Bounder it's not the best way to whiskery nirvana. So, as of a month or two back, Bounder comes out of the tin as a very heavy "set" cream and appears to be easier for more folk to handle.

Of course, when the happy day finally comes that I find a manufacturer of tubes who can supply precisely what I want in realistic quantities, I will be able to provide Bounder as really intended - vastly softer on but still extra-firm dried onto the 'tache. Meanwhile, if anyone has a tin knocking about that is too stiff for them, don't forget that it is an emulsion and a little DIY can customise it to your own whims: simply (very) gently heat the tin [sitting on top of a piece of paper, to catch spills, in a frying pan/skillet over a low, low flame] and, when softened enough, just stir in a drop or two of rum - or any other booze, if you fancy. Or even water, if you're in a puritan mood. Which means, you don't have to chuck it all away if you inadvertently leave the lid off. l Many years ago, it was not uncommon for products to advertise how they could be adapted by users and, though I'd rather my own works perfectly for everyone right out of the tin, I'm always happy to encourage people to do the same with Bounder, in the pursuit of the perfect, personal wax.

Now the leaves are turning brown, I'm also of a mind to start working on a new variety of wax which will survive the twin perils of icy weather and hot, steaming breath, even in arctic conditions. I suspect this will require a tube in order to hold the appropriate formula (which will need to be one which requires something more than just hot water to pull out) and when I think I've got something worthwhile, I'll put the word out here to see if anyone in cold climates would care to test it and give an honest opinion.

Thank you for that advice! I have a tin that has dried out... now I just need to get me some rum!


Well, you know where I live. I am willing to be a guinea pig. Send me a PM if you want foul weather tester this winter

Just to let everyone know, I performed this Bounder rejuvenation technique today on a tin that had hardened with excellent results. I used Irish whiskey, but the amount needed is so little the fragrance of the wax remained relatively unchanged

I use both and find each have their merit. To apply Bounder I have been doing as Mr Wax said people would and rub the palm of my finger onto the wax. Actually I used my thumb, but same point. What I found for the application is just not to use as much. If I take only little bits it applies really easy, doesn't clump and sets really well. I work outside in all weathers and I have had ice hanging of it and been thoroughly doused with minimal effect (as long as you don't spend all that time preening).

That aside, for speed and longeivity of hold at work (often 15-16 hour days) I tend to use brothers love. It sets really hard for the first part, but once I have had a couple of meals and drinks and removed the debris the it all settles in nicely for the day.

I always keep the Bounder in my pocket as I find it a great fall back in any case no matter what I have been wearing and it sets the tips lovely if I choose to change in the day. Both wash out nice so if it gets really bad then dip in the bathroom and reappear with the pocket Bounder having done its job. When it's kept in the pocket I find it works really easy, but again, little and more swipes appears to be the most useful way for me.

I used to do the nail thing with firehouse, but found I can't do it so well as I don't have a joint in my thumb so it's all a bit tricky. May be better for others, but as it works so well anyway I haven't worried about it for ages.

As for the odour which I know some commented on, brothers love does NOT have a strong odour, so give it a try. I think you will like it.