It's interesting how such a thing can create such strong opinions. I've used Brooks for years. I did try Specialised BG saddles on my commuter for a while but eventually gave up and just made sure I always had a saddle cover available.

As to old not necessarily meaning better, that's true, but I think quality tells. To me Brooks have lasted because, provided you get on with them, they are brilliant at what they do, and go on doing it for ever. Sometimes old is because it stands the test of time.

I ride steel and my favourite is my 64 Scot. It rides better thatn any new bike I've ridden even though it's heavier. It just feels right.

I have an original Jim Blackburn rack on my Audax bike, the rack dates from the early 80's, and has carried bags over probably 80-100000 miles over the last 30 odd years. It's showing a lot of wear and notching because of abrasion etc, but still works as intended.

Similarly, I still use a mid 70's Carradice Cotton Duck Saddle bag and it has been all over Europe. My Campag d/t changers on my Scot date from the 70's and still work perfectly as do the Nuovo Tipo hubs I bought the same time, probably now on their 8th or 9th sets of rims.

And my oldest current Brooks, a youngster at 25 years old, still works great, has mellowed into a lovely honey hue and sets off my battle scarred Audax bikes 531c frame perfectly.

I wonder if my wifes new Carbon fibre Orbea with it's Selle Italia Flite will still be here in 30 years?