Go Back  Bike Forums > Bike Forums > Clydesdales/Athenas (200+ lb / 91+ kg)
Reload this Page >

Riding a Brooks B33, B66 or B73?

Search
Notices
Clydesdales/Athenas (200+ lb / 91+ kg) Looking to lose that spare tire? Ideal weight 200+? Frustrated being a large cyclist in a sport geared for the ultra-light? Learn about the bikes and parts that can take the abuse of a heavier cyclist, how to keep your body going while losing the weight, and get support from others who've been successful.

Riding a Brooks B33, B66 or B73?

Thread Tools
 
Search this Thread
 
Old 10-28-11, 07:10 PM
  #1  
Get off my lawn!
Thread Starter
 
Velognome's Avatar
 
Join Date: Nov 2010
Location: The Garden State
Posts: 6,031

Bikes: 1917 Loomis, 1923 Rudge, 1930 Hercules Renown, 1947 Mclean, 1948 JA Holland, 1955 Hetchins, 1957 Carlton Flyer, 1962 Raleigh Sport, 1978&81 Raleigh Gomp GS', 2010 Raliegh Clubman

Mentioned: 9 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 93 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 98 Times in 48 Posts
Riding a Brooks B33, B66 or B73?

I would like to get some feed back from someone over 200 lbs on any of these saddles. I love the Brooks B17 & swifts on my Roadbikes but don't have experience on sprung saddles for upright bikes. So if you are over 200lbs and have a B33, B66 or B73 I'd love to get your opinion.

Thanks!
Velognome is offline  
Old 10-28-11, 08:57 PM
  #2  
Humvee of bikes =Worksman
 
Nightshade's Avatar
 
Join Date: May 2004
Posts: 5,362
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 10 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 6 Times in 6 Posts
I weigh in at 359 lbs (down from 380lbs!) and ride a Brooks B33 ,on my cruiser, which is specifically designed for really heavy people such as myself. I find the saddle to be VERY comfortable to ride.

In fact, I believe the B33 is the only saddle targeted to super clyde's like me.............
__________________
My preferred bicycle brand is.......WORKSMAN CYCLES
I dislike clipless pedals on any city bike since I feel they are unsafe.

Originally Posted by krazygluon
Steel: nearly a thousand years of metallurgical development
Aluminum: barely a hundred, which one would you rather have under your butt at 30mph?
Nightshade is offline  
Old 10-28-11, 09:59 PM
  #3  
Get off my lawn!
Thread Starter
 
Velognome's Avatar
 
Join Date: Nov 2010
Location: The Garden State
Posts: 6,031

Bikes: 1917 Loomis, 1923 Rudge, 1930 Hercules Renown, 1947 Mclean, 1948 JA Holland, 1955 Hetchins, 1957 Carlton Flyer, 1962 Raleigh Sport, 1978&81 Raleigh Gomp GS', 2010 Raliegh Clubman

Mentioned: 9 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 93 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 98 Times in 48 Posts
In fact, I believe the B33 is the only saddle targeted to super clyde's like me.............
I'm 240, I wonder if the B33 would be too stiff?
Velognome is offline  
Old 10-28-11, 10:41 PM
  #4  
Senior Member
 
Seve's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2010
Location: The GTA, Ontario, Canada
Posts: 735

Bikes: 2009 Rocky Mountain RC30 D

Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 1 Time in 1 Post
Originally Posted by Velognome
I'm 240, I wonder if the B33 would be too stiff?
You could if you wish, drop Brooks a note and describe what you are looking for, your details etc.

They are usually very good about answering queries.
https://www.brooksengland.com/getting-in-touch/
Seve is offline  
Old 10-29-11, 09:24 AM
  #5  
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Apr 2008
Posts: 5,428

Bikes: Cervelo RS, Specialized Stumpjumper FSR Pro, Schwinn Typhoon, Nashbar touring, custom steel MTB

Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 8 Post(s)
Liked 2 Times in 2 Posts
Originally Posted by Seve
You could if you wish, drop Brooks a note and describe what you are looking for, your details etc.
You could also buy from Wall Bike, test-ride the saddle for up to 6 months, then return it for a full refund if it doesn't work out...
sstorkel is offline  
Old 10-29-11, 11:30 AM
  #6  
Humvee of bikes =Worksman
 
Nightshade's Avatar
 
Join Date: May 2004
Posts: 5,362
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 10 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 6 Times in 6 Posts
Originally Posted by Velognome
I'm 240, I wonder if the B33 would be too stiff?
yes, It might be since you are 119 lbs lighter than I am.

Brooks has great info on their site so look here to see the line up to choose from that IMO will do you best.

https://www.brooksengland.com/catalog...26+heavy+duty/
__________________
My preferred bicycle brand is.......WORKSMAN CYCLES
I dislike clipless pedals on any city bike since I feel they are unsafe.

Originally Posted by krazygluon
Steel: nearly a thousand years of metallurgical development
Aluminum: barely a hundred, which one would you rather have under your butt at 30mph?
Nightshade is offline  
Old 10-29-11, 11:44 AM
  #7  
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Mar 2007
Posts: 6,401
Mentioned: 2 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 2 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 13 Times in 13 Posts
I use the Flyer (B17 with rear springs) at 210 pounds and like it very much. I suspect that more than 250 pounds or so might compress the springs too much, but couldn't say for sure.

I really like the look of the front loop saddles (the twisted springs on the B33 are fantastic, IMO) but my trouble with multi-rail saddles is that they all require two-piece seatposts which offer limited adjustability of the seat angle. I find that the angle of a Brooks saddle is absolutely critical for comfort, so I really need a two-bolt micro-adjust post with them.
Six jours is offline  
Old 10-30-11, 12:23 PM
  #8  
Get off my lawn!
Thread Starter
 
Velognome's Avatar
 
Join Date: Nov 2010
Location: The Garden State
Posts: 6,031

Bikes: 1917 Loomis, 1923 Rudge, 1930 Hercules Renown, 1947 Mclean, 1948 JA Holland, 1955 Hetchins, 1957 Carlton Flyer, 1962 Raleigh Sport, 1978&81 Raleigh Gomp GS', 2010 Raliegh Clubman

Mentioned: 9 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 93 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 98 Times in 48 Posts
I use the Flyer (B17 with rear springs) at 210 pounds and like it very much. I suspect that more than 250 pounds or so might compress the springs too much, but couldn't say for sure.
I've got a Flyer on this Raleigh Sports, with the drop bars, it is only a slightly upright positon. I've notice that I hardly compress the springs at all, but then again my weight if somewhat forward.



Brooks has great info on their site so look here to see the line up to choose from that IMO will do you best.

https://www.brooksengland.com/catalog...26+heavy+duty/
Thanks, this is where I started the search, not much in the way of ride reports or recomendations other than "heaviest" and warnings of "lateral movement"

You could also buy from Wall Bike, test-ride the saddle for up to 6 months, then return it for a full refund if it doesn't work out...
Completely forgot about them! I bought a few saddles from them, fair price and a very generoous return policy. Thanks for the idea!!
Attached Images
File Type: jpg
P5180060.jpg (96.0 KB, 563 views)
Velognome is offline  
Old 10-30-11, 02:00 PM
  #9  
Senior Member
 
Rona's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2011
Location: Groningen, Netherlands
Posts: 289

Bikes: Pre-Grant Peterson Bridgestone Mixte, Gazelle Champion Mondial Semirace Mixte

Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times in 0 Posts
I'm 220 and have a Brooks B66s. The springs are just right for me. I only feel them move when I hit something really hard.

I've also got a Lepper's saddle with a three spring set and I found it to be too much like a trampoline. I felt like I was about to bounce myself off the bike. Stiff springs are a must and the B66 is great.
Rona is offline  
Old 10-30-11, 09:16 PM
  #10  
Get off my lawn!
Thread Starter
 
Velognome's Avatar
 
Join Date: Nov 2010
Location: The Garden State
Posts: 6,031

Bikes: 1917 Loomis, 1923 Rudge, 1930 Hercules Renown, 1947 Mclean, 1948 JA Holland, 1955 Hetchins, 1957 Carlton Flyer, 1962 Raleigh Sport, 1978&81 Raleigh Gomp GS', 2010 Raliegh Clubman

Mentioned: 9 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 93 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 98 Times in 48 Posts
I've also got a Lepper's saddle with a three spring set and I found it to be too much like a trampoline. I felt like I was about to bounce myself off the bike. Stiff springs are a must and the B66 is great.
Thanks, I've been thinking the B73 would be bouncy


I like the look of the B66, the B33 looks awfully heavy.
Velognome is offline  
Old 11-01-11, 07:44 PM
  #11  
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Mar 2007
Posts: 6,401
Mentioned: 2 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 2 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 13 Times in 13 Posts
Originally Posted by Velognome
the B33 looks awfully heavy.
Three and a half pounds. More than a pound heavier that the B66. Enough to make me think putting it on one of my bikes would be the end of the world. But then I remember that my body weight varies by more than that just based on the time of day...
Six jours is offline  
Likes For Six jours:
Old 11-02-11, 11:12 AM
  #12  
Get off my lawn!
Thread Starter
 
Velognome's Avatar
 
Join Date: Nov 2010
Location: The Garden State
Posts: 6,031

Bikes: 1917 Loomis, 1923 Rudge, 1930 Hercules Renown, 1947 Mclean, 1948 JA Holland, 1955 Hetchins, 1957 Carlton Flyer, 1962 Raleigh Sport, 1978&81 Raleigh Gomp GS', 2010 Raliegh Clubman

Mentioned: 9 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 93 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 98 Times in 48 Posts
The actual weight doesn't bother me as much as size of B33. I think they look more at home on a vintage motorcycle than a bicycle. maybe, Im just spending too much looking and should just pull the trigger on one?

Velognome is offline  
Old 11-02-11, 04:36 PM
  #13  
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Mar 2007
Posts: 6,401
Mentioned: 2 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 2 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 13 Times in 13 Posts
Well, now I want a board track racer.
Six jours is offline  
Old 11-02-11, 05:25 PM
  #14  
Senior Member
 
Mithrandir's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jun 2011
Location: Buffalo, NY
Posts: 2,401

Bikes: 2012 Surly LHT, 1995 GT Outpost Trail

Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 2 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 1 Time in 1 Post
Originally Posted by Six jours
I use the Flyer (B17 with rear springs) at 210 pounds and like it very much. I suspect that more than 250 pounds or so might compress the springs too much, but couldn't say for sure.

I really like the look of the front loop saddles (the twisted springs on the B33 are fantastic, IMO) but my trouble with multi-rail saddles is that they all require two-piece seatposts which offer limited adjustability of the seat angle. I find that the angle of a Brooks saddle is absolutely critical for comfort, so I really need a two-bolt micro-adjust post with them.
357 here, and the Flyer is working great for me. Got it when I was around 370, too.
Mithrandir is offline  
Old 03-07-12, 09:31 PM
  #15  
Newbie
 
Join Date: Apr 2010
Posts: 4
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 1 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times in 0 Posts
Going to buy a B33 but have questions

OK, after trying a couple of different seats I am going to give a Brooks B33 a try. I have a trek pure sport so I am almost riding a cruiser. I kind of understand that I need a special clamp to install this seat but not totally clear.

Do I need this clamp plus a new seat post?

Can someone recommend a retailer?

Thanks
thezeker is offline  
Old 03-07-12, 09:33 PM
  #16  
You gonna eat that?
 
Doohickie's Avatar
 
Join Date: Sep 2008
Location: Fort Worth, Texas Church of Hopeful Uncertainty
Posts: 14,715

Bikes: 1966 Raleigh DL-1 Tourist, 1973 Schwinn Varsity, 1983 Raleigh Marathon, 1994 Nishiki Sport XRS

Mentioned: 6 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 164 Post(s)
Liked 67 Times in 44 Posts
I have a B72 on my Raleigh DL-1. Love it. I just got a B66 for another bike, but I haven't had a chance to ride it yet (&%@* business travel!)
__________________
I stop for people / whose right of way I honor / but not for no one.


Originally Posted by bragi "However, it's never a good idea to overgeneralize."
Doohickie is offline  
Old 03-08-12, 12:20 AM
  #17  
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Apr 2008
Posts: 5,428

Bikes: Cervelo RS, Specialized Stumpjumper FSR Pro, Schwinn Typhoon, Nashbar touring, custom steel MTB

Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 8 Post(s)
Liked 2 Times in 2 Posts
Originally Posted by thezeker
Can someone recommend a retailer?
I think someone already did...
sstorkel is offline  
Old 03-08-12, 12:27 AM
  #18  
Newbie
 
Join Date: Apr 2010
Posts: 4
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 1 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times in 0 Posts
Originally Posted by sstorkel
I think someone already did...
They don't have the color I wanted.
thezeker is offline  
Old 03-08-12, 10:02 AM
  #19  
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Apr 2008
Posts: 5,428

Bikes: Cervelo RS, Specialized Stumpjumper FSR Pro, Schwinn Typhoon, Nashbar touring, custom steel MTB

Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 8 Post(s)
Liked 2 Times in 2 Posts
Originally Posted by thezeker
They don't have the color I wanted.
You should probably wait until they do. Despite all the cheerleaders, Brooks isn't for everyone. Nobody has a better return policy, larger stock, or better customer service than Wall Bike...
sstorkel is offline  
Old 03-08-12, 11:54 AM
  #20  
Newbie
 
Join Date: Apr 2010
Posts: 4
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 1 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times in 0 Posts
Originally Posted by sstorkel
You should probably wait until they do. Despite all the cheerleaders, Brooks isn't for everyone. Nobody has a better return policy, larger stock, or better customer service than Wall Bike...
My logical mind says yes yes yes to your suggestion, but my butt screams NO NO NO!
thezeker is offline  
Old 03-08-12, 12:16 PM
  #21  
Member
 
Join Date: Mar 2012
Posts: 25
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times in 0 Posts
Man, the seats with springs just seem too out there for me. Like, they dont go on a "racing" bike or something. But, I'm guessing it has to be a huge improvement over the stock specialized saddle, yes? I'm 235 and dropping as I ride, and ride a 2008 specialized roubaix.

Suggestions anyone?
Oilsooner is offline  
Old 03-08-12, 04:28 PM
  #22  
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Apr 2008
Posts: 5,428

Bikes: Cervelo RS, Specialized Stumpjumper FSR Pro, Schwinn Typhoon, Nashbar touring, custom steel MTB

Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 8 Post(s)
Liked 2 Times in 2 Posts
Originally Posted by thezeker
My logical mind says yes yes yes to your suggestion, but my butt screams NO NO NO!
You may find that a chunk of concrete or a splintery board is more comfortable than a Brooks saddle. I know I would
sstorkel is offline  
Old 03-08-12, 04:34 PM
  #23  
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Apr 2008
Posts: 5,428

Bikes: Cervelo RS, Specialized Stumpjumper FSR Pro, Schwinn Typhoon, Nashbar touring, custom steel MTB

Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 8 Post(s)
Liked 2 Times in 2 Posts
Originally Posted by Oilsooner
Man, the seats with springs just seem too out there for me. Like, they dont go on a "racing" bike or something. But, I'm guessing it has to be a huge improvement over the stock specialized saddle, yes? I'm 235 and dropping as I ride, and ride a 2008 specialized roubaix.

Suggestions anyone?
I own several very comfortable saddles. None were made by Brooks and there isn't a single spring to be found. I'm a big fan of Selle SMP, ISM, and WTB saddles. The ISM Adamo Road saddle is currently my favorite, but I'll admit that it is not for the casual rider. The do make saddles with more padding that might be appropriate, though.
sstorkel is offline  
Old 03-09-12, 02:50 AM
  #24  
Senior Member
 
pat5319's Avatar
 
Join Date: Sep 2000
Location: Spokane WA
Posts: 1,148

Bikes: Seven Axiom Ti, Trek 620, Masi cylocross (steel). Masi Souleville 8spd, Fat Chance Mtn. (steel), Schwinn Triple Bar cruiser, Mazi Speciale Fix/single, Schwinn Typhoon

Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 7 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 1 Time in 1 Post
I'm not sure which mine is but it works great, bought it for my Electra Amsterdam from Steve Loveland https://stevesoncannonstreet.com/
He knows his stuff
Pat

Last edited by pat5319; 03-09-12 at 02:53 AM.
pat5319 is offline  
Old 03-09-12, 07:06 AM
  #25  
Newbie
 
Join Date: Apr 2010
Posts: 4
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 1 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times in 0 Posts
I'll find out starting sometime next week. I ordered a B33. I've been through more than a few saddles including a few off beat ones. Part of that was my fault for not investigating enough over the years. I've never tried a leather saddle before. I will eventually report back.
thezeker is offline  


Contact Us - Archive - Advertising - Cookie Policy - Privacy Statement - Terms of Service -

Copyright © 2024 MH Sub I, LLC dba Internet Brands. All rights reserved. Use of this site indicates your consent to the Terms of Use.