Brooks can be great for long-distance but the fans often forget the numerous problems.

1. Break-in. Sometimes fine from the beginning or sometimes fine after some break-in. But then if it's still not comfy that's a lot of time & often some $$ for the experiment.

2. Sway--even Brooks Pro can sway & I've seen scary pictures of swayed B-17's. People love 'em but they hardly resemble as when new. Other B-17 riders show saddles that remain fairly flat on the top. Supposedly sway is controlled by tension nut but many riders report re-tensioning doesn't work very well.

3. Shape/dimensions: Brooks' website is not clear about much of this, buyers have to rely on web postings. B-17 has the flared skirt which many riders don't like so they're forced to lace. Some Brooks saddles pre-drilled for lacing, others not (?). Brooks' triangular style (from above) can be an impediment to proper fit vs many plastic saddles that have a smoother transition from rear-nose.

4. Cost: fairly high & rather exorbitant for special models.

5. Using light colored shorts/pants might pick up dye &/or ProofHide.