Bike Forums - Brooks saddle question

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Quote:

Originally Posted by Hangtownmatt (Post 16008351)

I agree with everyone that proper adjustment is critical with the B-17 as well as rider position (i.e. somewhat upright); all good advice. What I haven't seen mentioned is that the rail system on the B-17 has very little fore/aft adjustment. For that reason, when I hear people complain about the B-17 being torturous on the sit bones, I always wonder if it's because they can't slide the seat back far enough for proper adjustment, and might actually be sitting on the rear steel frame crosspiece instead of suspended leather. That is torturous! Believe me ... I know! One advantage to a suspended leather saddle like the B-17 is that while pedaling you can reach underneath the saddle and feel exactly where you sit bones are positioned. If they are in the sweet spot you will love this saddle. If not ....

Yep. I need to take the Brooks off my commuter, because I can't get it quite back far enough. On the other bike, the same model sadle works great. Are there any other tensioned leather saddles with the same shape as a b17, but more modern rails? I just need half an inch or so (I've already got the biggest set back seat post I could find.).

Update: 4th ride on the brooks B17 and I'm becoming a believer. Mine is a B17S actually, shorter nose and its starting to comform and break in nicely already. I have treated it twice with mink oil to condition the leather and it was that slight tilt back that did it for me. Thanks to all that have suggested advice on setting these up. It doesn't only look good on my retro Fugi but feels real good now.

Quote:

Originally Posted by droy45 (Post 16013712)

You have been assimilated.

Resistance is futile....

:thumb:

Pics!

Quote:

Originally Posted by hartphoto (Post 16013744)

You have been assimilated.

Resistance is futile....

:thumb:

Pics!

Here it is. Click on it to expand.

http://bikeforums.net/attachment.php...hmentid=337678

Quote:

Originally Posted by fietsbob (Post 15997343)

And I thought the Bag Balm went on You, not the tanned Cowhide..

It depends on what you mean by "tanned cowhide".

It ain't Moose or Buffalo. Or Horsehide.. :deadhorse:

Sorry, I forgot to add the smiley.

Quote:

Originally Posted by droy45 (Post 16014616)

Here it is. Click on it to expand.

http://bikeforums.net/attachment.php...hmentid=337678

Cool. You should post this in "Hot or Not". :thumb:

How do Brooks saddles hold up after multiple rainy rides (and more to come)?

Quote:

Originally Posted by jrickards (Post 16014869)

How do Brooks saddles hold up after multiple rainy rides (and more to come)?

The Proofhide may soften it up a little and aid with break-in, but I think it's main role is actually to prevent water uptake and water-induced stretching and sagging. I regularily slather it on the underside of the saddle (and the top) for that reason.

My first B17 felt ok after 50-60km. I don't remember any discomfort on my second.

I rode both in the rain quite a bit and it's never been a problem. I didn't proofide the second one until after a year or two. I do put my helmet cover or plastic bag or pannier cover overnight when touring. I'm more worried about animals chewing it than water.

Update from the OP: I'm now at about 350 miles on my first B 17, and I have to say it's much more comfortable than it was at 200. I rode about 25 miles yesterday, and when I got home I realized I hadn't thought about the saddle at all during the whole ride, which is a very good sign. I'm not sure if the saddle broke in, or some of my anatomy did, but either way, I'm happy...