Originally posted by WorldIRC
I also noticed today that my crappy 2002 Specialized Sport started creaking in the rails. I tried tightening it as hard as I could but it still creaks. I tried another friends saddle (Ti rails) and the creak wasn't there. My saddle has plastic rails on it. What seat would be recommended in terms of quality. I was looking at the Selle Italie SLR and the Flite Ti Gel.
Rails don't creak. So the problem may be at the rails-bracket interface. Make sure that bolt is tight and that you don't have a problem there. In some cases, rusty rails may creak; if your rails are rusty, sand them clean.
What's more than likely, however, is that it creaks where the railings are attached to the plastic "base" of the saddle... either because plastic is cracked or water has seeped into the saddle or... In other words, just make sure the problem really is with the saddle.
As to which replacement saddle is best, your choice is as good as mine! I enjoy my Brooks leather saddle and that's what I have on my touring bike. On the commuter, I have a cheap plastic saddle, which I find more convenient for trips less than 5 km in length: no need for rain protection.
Regards,