My secondhand touring bike has a brooks leather seat!

Should this be something to be scared of if going on a 900 mile tour?

Hi Brooky

New leather saddles normally take a while to break in and then to your own bottom shape. So yours may or may not be comfortable for you. If it has been broken in by a previous rider it may never suit you. One suggestion is to re-proofhide it (top and bottom) and leave it for a few days - one week then buff the top. Maybe also tension it a bit. There is an adjusting point at the front which requires a special spanner.

However we have been riding on Brooks saddles for a few years now and think they are the most comfortable saddle. They breathe too.

You could always replace it with a new one if necessary but go for the Brooks Flyer. The springs make all the difference.

I think I shall keep it depending on how it goes. As we have horses we have plenty of saddle soap which I've applied to it. I can't really get rid of it, especially as its a "Brooks" seat!!

Brooks advise against saddle soap.
They sell a wax mixture called Proofhide for use on their saddles. Use it, but dont over-use it, or the saddle will go too soft.

Like hiking boots, a broken in saddle may not appreciate being used by another owner, just try it and see.
New Brooks take about 3 weeks of gentle daily riding to really bed in.

If it doesn't work out I hear ther's a BodyFit Gel Tour seat at about 20 quid which is aparently the best selling tour seat.

Leather rules!