trek 520 and brooks saddle?
 

Just looking for some commuting advise. It turns out turning 50 earns a good birthday present, I was told to pick something out and the trek 520 has always appealed to me for my 15mi each way commute. Has anyone put a brooks b-17 saddle on the 520, and is there a difference between the b-17 standard and special?

If you check the Touring section the B-17 is pretty much the saddle of choice for tourers including those who ride the 520. I think the only difference is that the Special uses copper rivets. I am currently using the Team Pro on my 520. Both are great saddles.

The Special has a couple of aesthetic touches that liken it to the Swift: hammered copper rivets and chamfered edges along the skirts (the saddle's "side walls"). The saddle rails are copper-plated steel. Very pretty to behold, but no functional difference I know of between it and the B17 standard.

Cosmetic differences (and price difference) only. The Special has copper rivets

http://www.wallbike.com/jpgs/3colorsb17cs.jpg

while the standard has small steel one

http://www.wallbike.com/jpgs/b17standnarrblack.jpg

The rivets on the Special aren't as large as on the Pro.

The Brooks will work on any bike. Just realize that the saddle is a little taller than a plastic saddle and make adjustment accordingly. It's less painful that way;)

thanks for the input

IMHO- it depends upon your saddle - handle bar position, if they are about level- a B17 is fine.
Have put a B-17 and an Imperial on my 520, both are fine. I have tried a B-68, was not as
comfortable for me. Also tried Champion Special, not optimal for me. My handlebars are level with
seat.

There is a B17N. the N stands for Narrow. It is more for a bike that keeps you in more of a racing position or if you have a skinny Butt.
I have a Champion Flyer (B17 with spring suspension) on my T700. Love it!

It did take a good 500 miles to really start to conform to my behind. At nearly 2,000 miles It now is more comfortable without riding shorts then any of my other saddles are with shorts. Top of the list for one of the best bike related items I have ever bought.

I have a Brooks B-67 on my Trek 520. Comfortable over the long haul! :)

Have a B-17 Special on my Allez. Even though the handlebars are slightly lower, the saddle is very comfortable over the long haul.

Flyer Special on my 520. Same top as s a B17, but it has springs.