Did you get that leather conditioning waxy/oily goop from Brooks as well? I slathered that on liberally several times when I first got it. All I can say is I'll be interested in hearing about your first ride on the Brooks. My first ride on it felt like I was straddling a concrete telephone poll. I've read others who thought it was comfortable from the first ride, but that wasn't my experience. I'm glad to say, though, that it eventually broke in or my body broke itself in over the Brooks or whatever it is that happens, and now it's the most comfortable saddle I've ever ridden. I'm a card-carrying member of the leather saddle cult.