I've been doing the same search tonight, I want to go with a soft brown saddle and cork tape with my deep purple paint job, the black just isn't doing it for me. I really do like the looks of the brown brooks, or that ideal, and I'm tempted, but I'm worried about my break-in time. I've been riding my black Concor for 25 years and love it, so the SSM Regal has the look I want and the "feel" I'm used to, but really no cheaper than a brooks. Which would you rather ride on?