Brooks saddle question
08-29-13, 10:43 PM
#51
Senior Member
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 ....
08-30-13, 06:51 AM
#52
tougher than a boiled owl
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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.
08-30-13, 07:03 AM
#53
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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.
Resistance is futile....
Pics!
08-30-13, 11:37 AM
#54
tougher than a boiled owl
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08-30-13, 11:39 AM
#55
Prefers Cicero
08-30-13, 12:50 PM
#58
working on my sandal tan
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08-30-13, 01:02 PM
#59
Senior Member
How do Brooks saddles hold up after multiple rainy rides (and more to come)?
08-30-13, 01:14 PM
#60
Prefers Cicero
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.
08-30-13, 01:19 PM
#61
Lentement mais sûrement
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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.
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.
09-01-13, 06:58 PM
#62
bragi
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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...
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