Seriously, how long do they typically last, if regularly carrying a few pounds (Carradice bag containing a U-lock and some other stuff, for example)?

I have one from the '60s or '70s, and one of the bag loops tore out the other night, and I'm wondering if that's more to do with age or design, and contemplating the purchase of a new B72 or B66 (because it's available in black and has bag loops that are actually part of the frame) for my 1937 Raleigh Tourist

For the B72, I would think it is all relative to the upkeep. Those came on Sports that had the pleather bags for everyday use. Not heavy duty touring bags. In the case of daily use of a Carradice bag the brace holding the bags weight would be important.

Saddles that had the loops integrated into the cantle plate were ment for heavier bags, long periods of hauling.

So maybe the B66 is better for my purposes?

I've only seen them tear when the leather is rotten.

Makes sense. I wish I knew more about the history of the saddle I have now...like, if it was regularly used with a bag and made it a few decades. I also wish the B72 was still available in black....

A Bagman might support the bag enough to be able to continue using the saddle.

Well, the saddle has also needed to be re-shaped and laced to keep it from flaring out uncomfortably. When it's not being ridden, it looks fine and not overly saggy, but it does tend to flare out, and I'm concerned about the lacing - one side looks like it'll tear through before too long. It's surprising, because the saddle was fairly supple to start.

My 73 B72 was perfect looking but when I sat on it, rip, went the nose.

it can look good...

Anyone else have thoughts? I may try to buy a saddle today

If used, the leather should be supple, but there can be a big difference simply because some saddles have thin leather and others have thicker leather. There should be no cracks or distortions around any of the rivets.

rhm (Rudy) on this site has rebuilt Brooks saddles quite successfully! He has at least on thread on the topic. So if your cantles don't have finish problems that might be an option as well.

Like this ? Brooks B72 Saddle > Components > Saddles | Jenson USA

The risk is leather tear out.

Other Brooks products the bag loops are part of the steel back rivet plate..

U lock? support with a rear rack under the bag ..


Old dry leather will tear like cardboard, as was discovered..