I have an unmarked Asian c 70s saddle on loan from a friend at present, but want to pick up my own. I am building up a bike that started with a $25 CL find, so doing it on the cheap is part of the fun.

Is the saddle pictured here, which is in an auction ending tonight, too far gone as far as dryness/cracks, or can application of Proofide or similar treatment bring it back to life? I would not chase it much beyond the starting price ($10+$10 shipping) in any case.

Thanks for any advice!

I've used saddles in similar shape with no problems...I can't clearly tell from the pic but if the leather is stretching away from the top front rivet it will go fairly quickly depending on how big you are and how nice you treat it.

I've ridden worse looking Brooks and Ideals with no problems!

Is this the saddle you are talking about?



(under side photo of certain ebay listing)

the leather looks decent and if you treat it, it will be fine, but this photo:



and this photo



show that both of the outer grommets on the back are about to go.

You might get a lot of miles out of it, depending on how you are riding, but...

I look for cracks around the front 3 rivets. Can't tell from the pics. I'd hold out.

A few days ago a similar saddle, in excellent shape, went for $38+ shipping, and I think they turn up cheaper than that too. So I figured $20 wasn't that good of a deal. Thanks for the advice!

I saw that Fujita. I'm surprised that it went that cheap.

Ha, good thing I don't have any lycra!