Breaking in new Brooks Professional saddle -- don't worry, not another how to inquiry
06-11-14, 07:15 PM
#51
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My experience as a Brooks newb is limited to two: a B67 I bought new, which took several hundred miles to reach that level of comfort that makes you forget there's a saddle holding you up (not quite there yet but close), and a Flyer S Special I just bought used (but in new condition) off ebay - only have about 50 miles on it but surprisingly, while stiffer than the B67, is actually more comfortable earlier in the cycle than the B67. I know the narrower seats are supposed to be for lower bars, but both saddles are on 3 speeds. Neither got any treatment except butt sweat.
06-11-14, 10:31 PM
#52
Senior Member
I've only owned a Professional, so YMMV. Pro's dont to me break in like other Brooks like B17s that I read about (here) that develop impressions from sit bones, etc. over the break in period. My '73 Pro has never done that, yet is comfortable (to me). I weighed something like 125 when I got it. I weigh somewhat more than that now 
It is still comfortable, though I think it "disappeared" better back in the day 
Proofide only treatment which reminds me, I need to order some as I think my original tin has gone somewhat rancid.
It is still comfortable, though I think it "disappeared" better back in the day Proofide only treatment which reminds me, I need to order some as I think my original tin has gone somewhat rancid.
06-12-14, 04:26 AM
#53
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Sno-Seal works best for me.
On new saddles it goes on both sides - top/finish and bottom/suede. Faster break-in can be accomplished through "soaking" the Sno-seal into the leather pores in direct sunlight, or in the oven at 180 deg. F for half an hour.
Since Sno-Seal is made from bee's wax it allows the saddle to breathe properly. I've tried Proofide but it isn't shelf stable, and it's stupidly expensive to boot.
On new saddles it goes on both sides - top/finish and bottom/suede. Faster break-in can be accomplished through "soaking" the Sno-seal into the leather pores in direct sunlight, or in the oven at 180 deg. F for half an hour.
Since Sno-Seal is made from bee's wax it allows the saddle to breathe properly. I've tried Proofide but it isn't shelf stable, and it's stupidly expensive to boot.
06-12-14, 09:49 AM
#56
Senior Member
I only have the standard B17 & B67 and they don't require breaking in for me. Just take out of box, Proofide top & underneath and let it "percolate" overnight. Wipe off in the morning, install & ride. That's it. My b*tt was made for a B17, apparently. 
06-12-14, 10:59 AM
#57
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06-13-14, 02:44 PM
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For what it's worth, I never do anything to my saddles, and because that's what I think is best. I'm just lazy. In theory, you could convince me that I could double the life with better care, but as things are, they're lasting very, very long. I recommend the do-nothing plan.
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