Have you seen the Velo Orange version of the B17? You can get it on Ebay for about $70. I bought one about six months ago. It's not nearly as soft as Brooks (yet at least), but it has some of the same qualities, and I don't find it too bad as a budget alternative. I have four bikes: three have B17s and one has the Velo Orange.
Originally Posted by
bmthom.gis
It's my dream to one day have a Brooks on almost every bike I have
I will keep the seat post QR. The places where she will sit outside are not known for any sort of bicycle theft. When I am at home or work my bikes stay inside.
Pie plate will go as soon as I can get her up in a work stand.