Brooks Saddles
Discussion
My birthday is fast approaching and naturally I'll be hinting at heavily at suitably bikey, for presents I much prefer items that will last rather than consumables such as tyres etc.
I really quite fancy a Brooks saddle http://www.brooksengland.com/catalogue-and-shop/sa...
Are they really all that? I'm happy with how it will look on both my modern and retro bike but I don't a sore arse from it!
I really quite fancy a Brooks saddle http://www.brooksengland.com/catalogue-and-shop/sa...
Are they really all that? I'm happy with how it will look on both my modern and retro bike but I don't a sore arse from it!
In my experience, yes. I've got or had a a B67, a B17 champion flyer, a B17 standard, and a Team Pro (the posh one with copper rivets). I've also got a Spa Aire, which is kinda a clone of the Swallow, I think.
It depends on the model as to how long it takes to break in. The B67 broke in too quickly, and was quickly sold on as it was apparent it wasn't up to the use I was putting it to. My B17 champion has done over 25,000km and never been adjusted. It's the most comfortable thing I sit on. The Team Pro was a bit hard when I did a 600km on it with barely any riding on it beforehand, but now feels fantastic. In contrast, I'd done maybe 3000km on the Spa when I rode a 1400km brevet on it. I got pressure sores 700km in. It now feels great - finally it's broken it, but I was harmed in the process.
Things to note -
look up how much proofide to use for that model. If it's one that breaks in easy, be stingy.
they hate getting wet, so tuck a cover up under the rails.
they do get targeted by thieves, so expect to run a cable lock through the rails if you leave it anywhere.
don't ride it without padded shorts until it's your shape.
never tighten the adjustment bolt.
They are a thing of loveliness. Shame the recent acquisition by Selle Royal has lead to such massive price increases. I paid £50 for my B17 champion in 2009. Looks like I could get more than that for it on ebay now.
It depends on the model as to how long it takes to break in. The B67 broke in too quickly, and was quickly sold on as it was apparent it wasn't up to the use I was putting it to. My B17 champion has done over 25,000km and never been adjusted. It's the most comfortable thing I sit on. The Team Pro was a bit hard when I did a 600km on it with barely any riding on it beforehand, but now feels fantastic. In contrast, I'd done maybe 3000km on the Spa when I rode a 1400km brevet on it. I got pressure sores 700km in. It now feels great - finally it's broken it, but I was harmed in the process.
Things to note -
look up how much proofide to use for that model. If it's one that breaks in easy, be stingy.
they hate getting wet, so tuck a cover up under the rails.
they do get targeted by thieves, so expect to run a cable lock through the rails if you leave it anywhere.
don't ride it without padded shorts until it's your shape.
never tighten the adjustment bolt.
They are a thing of loveliness. Shame the recent acquisition by Selle Royal has lead to such massive price increases. I paid £50 for my B17 champion in 2009. Looks like I could get more than that for it on ebay now.
wildoliver said:
Am I ever likely to break a brooks in on a road bike that I ride probably 10 miles a week on? Is it likely to just be an uncomfortable waste of money for me?
A Brooks is a long term investment, the more miles you do on one the better they get 
I've got one on a carbon roadie which gets a few disdainful looks...
wildoliver said:
Am I ever likely to break a brooks in on a road bike that I ride probably 10 miles a week on? Is it likely to just be an uncomfortable waste of money for me?
Something like a team pro? no. Something like a B17, yes.Leaving the saddle slathered in proofide, in a freezer bag, in the airing cupboard seemed to help.
Don't even look at the Spa saddles - still feel like wood at 1000km.
Of course, you could take up audax and break in the saddle in one hit. Pressure sores heal quite quickly if you use hydrocolloid dressings. No picture of mine, but this was one chap's "situation" on LEL1400km.
NSFW - seriously, it's a horrible image requiring mind bleach post-viewing
Views vary massively on Brooks, people either love them or hate them. Personally I love them and have had a few and have 3 (one spare with no bike to use it on yet)
1) Team Pro ‘Vans’ Edition (on the shelf)
2) Swift Mandarin Bike Polo Edition (on my Orange/Blue Brompton)
3) C17 Cambium (new Brooks saddle) (on my Dahon Jetstream EX folding bike).
Have also had a B73 and a B17 ‘World Traveller’ and love them all. Of course they are great saddles but most are a thing of beauty.
1) Team Pro ‘Vans’ Edition (on the shelf)
2) Swift Mandarin Bike Polo Edition (on my Orange/Blue Brompton)
3) C17 Cambium (new Brooks saddle) (on my Dahon Jetstream EX folding bike).
Have also had a B73 and a B17 ‘World Traveller’ and love them all. Of course they are great saddles but most are a thing of beauty.
Edited by seadragon on Wednesday 21st August 13:57
Gassing Station | Pedal Powered | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff