My first few rides were brutal on my B-17N. I did 2 back to back proofide treatments and rode more, and now I LOVE the saddle. It just takes a little time in the saddle - not much.

I went out on a limb and followed some web guidance. I did a heavy proofide treatment (top and bottom) followed by the "damp towel on the saddle overnight" routine for about 3 nights, and I found that it softened the leather enough to allow a noticeably more comfortable break in. Now I am allowing the natural break-in to occur with body heat and sweat.