IMO you should follow the care directions in the saddle packaging - use Proofide, don't over do it, just keep it as dry as possible and re-apply every 6 months or so. I'd also trust Sheldon knows what he's talking about, too.
Riding it in bad weather is hardly a big deal - a plastic bag can work when parked or riding, and there are these wonderful devices invented to keep water from spraying up/out called fenders, which definitely help.
If you're a weight weenie, your Brooks would have Ti rails and be a swift cut or some such... it seriously isn't a big deal. If I load my two cages with full water bottles it's probably about the same if not more... Comfort > weight.
Last edited by v1k1ng1001; 07-08-08 at 01:03 PM.