My first Brooks was in 2009 the first year I got my self a Surly Long Haul Trucker that was a good bicycle for sure now I have the Surly Disc Trucker with Disc Breaks I have not yet got a brooks saddle for this bicycle but I'm going to get one I like the hand hammer one the best but as of now they are not in stock thanks to covid19.Before I lost my wife in 2014 she is now in heaven I miss her so much here.But life goes on not easy but that's life for me now days.The B17 Brooks saddle are great like you said it does take time to break them in.First time I got on my B17 my butt hurt lol but after a while it broke in well.I wish you the best on your cycle tours.I did Subscribed to your channel.My wife was only 59 I am now 65 it will soon be 9 years she left me but I know she is in a better place I hope to be with her again someday.
I'm a 6'2 180lb guy and a few weeks ago i bought a very slightly used B17S on ebay for only $70. Honestly, I bought the S model because it was the least expensive one i found. When i first received it it was in need of some deep conditioning, the leather was pretty dried out and almost a grey color. I applied some Bick's Heavy-Duty Leather Preservative, and it brought the leather back to life, it looks brand new and it's a nice rich brown color. As a bonus I found out the saddle was actually the B17S softened version which is more expensive then the regular B17S. I haven't ridden a ton on it yet, i maybe have about 70 miles on it but so far so good, it's not ultra comfy but I expect it will eventually get there. In terms of fit for me, it fits great. The saddle is nice and wide and it being 2 inches shorter then a standard saddle doesn't make it any less comfy. I plan of using the saddle year-round including this winter but plan of slathering more Bick's on it to help with weather resistance. I don't own a car so I ride my bike all year round, even in 2ft of snow, lol.
Excellent to hear. Thank you. This goes to show that gender specific saddle design can sometimes be overlooked. It's all about personal fit, not branding.
I am loving my B17 saddle! I also found it extremely slippery at first but it wasn’t long before I did not notice it anymore. I also have gotten to the point where I can go without bike shorts. Shower caps are just perfect to cover the saddle! I was using a plastic bag but just picked one up for my overnight bike trip a few days ago.
The freedom of not needing to wear padded shorts! I really enjoy this especially so when on tour, as I'm not a fan of wearing "adult diapers" (as someone once told me) for multiple hours/multiple days.
I do that to all my expensive Wilson gloves and they break in so well. Apply some conditioner and bang bang bang. Also I have left them in my car during summer and let the heat break them in.
B17 were my first Brompton saddle but although lots of grease and using time (under rain too), I ever found it really comfortable, because the saddle remained as hard as a wooden saddle 😮, then I tried the "Swift" model and I can assure that it were another world, 5-6 hours cycling a day with no cycling tecnical shorts without pain or any problem! 😊
Thank you for sharing your experience and for suggesting another saddle to try out. Saddle comfort is so personal. B17 saddles work perfectly for me, but again, not for everyone. Glad to hear your search for a comfortable saddle is over.
Great review.When I ordered my Kona Sutra I asked the bike shop if they could swap out the leather B17 saddle for a Brooks C17 carved saddle,which they did.Weatherproof and maintenance free.It's the most comfortable saddle I've owned,no padded shorts required.I can do a 50 mile ride with no discomfort.It's also vegan friendly for those that don't want a leather saddle.Great content,keep up the good work...it's appreciated.
Great review looking forward to getting one for my Brompton. Sure it will be comfy after break in period and look awesome too. Thanks taking the time to film and offer your opinion. All the best Pete 🚲
Just discovered your channel and love your videos as I have been cycling since childhood and never really owned a car. I have not driven a care for nearly 7 years now and I cycle everywhere. It is my mode of transport and also for leisure. When weather is good I go on long cycling camping trips around here in Ireland. I have just recently bought a B66 for a number of reasons. I have had two B17s before but upgraded to B66 for both my bikes due to the miles I put up and the roads I have to travel at times. You answered a question for me about the application of the profide and frequency and method of application. Thank you so much and love your lovely manner on video.
I had to check B66 as I wasn't familiar with the model. Interestingly I looked into that saddle, but just recently ended up purchasing a suspension seat post, but have yet to try it out.
Their made 12 miles from me in a very dark and dank factory around the back streets of Birmingham England. Hate to throw a spanner in the works but I could never and I mean never get on with mine!!. Keep Safe and keep up the excellent work!! xx
Yikes! That doesn't sound too appealing! I think saddles are generally a hit or miss. Had my touring bike not come with another Brooks saddle, I wouldn't have bought one, because of my experience with the first one. But I'm glad I got to try the full size saddle, as it's worked out.
I am a hiker turning biker and found the brand new brooks way more comfortable than the stock rubber saddle my bike came with. I love wearing regular shorts when I ride too. Thanks for the review; subbed!
That's exactly my experience as well. In their most uncomfortable state the Brooks saddles were more comfortable than the synthetic saddles I've tried. Thanks for subscribing! I appreciate it.
Great review. Let me start by declaring I'm a guy. I just received my new Brompton bicycle in May and by June I realized that the standard saddle that comes with it, does not work for me at all. I needed a wider saddle to ensure my sit bones were happy so I picked up a Brooks B-17S. Even though it's designated a Ladies saddle, it was comfortable right out of the box. You're right that it doesn't have a lot of travel on the rails but I was able to set it up for my riding position. I haven't applied any proofide on it yet but will do so in the near future. I've done a couple of hundred kilometers and so far so good.
That's great to hear you found a saddle that's comfortable for you! And on the first try. I find the women's/men's saddle "marketing" misleading. I have a women's saddle that came with a gravel bike and it is absolutely horrific, doesn't work for me at all.
I have had my Brooks B17 Special for about ten years now and have taken it from my old bike to my new bike. It is getting better all the time and a joy to sit on and ride. Any shorts will do! No padding needed! Great video! Keep up the good work!
Thank you! This is excellent to hear. I'm on a multi month tour right now and the saddle gets more comfortable every day. Still no padded shorts for me.
Great review! I have used my Brooks B17 Champion saddle for 11 years now. I totally agree with what you said. There is another plus and that is that you do not quickly get sweaty on your buttocks. On my new bike a have the Brooks Cambium. It's made of rubber. It's verry hard and it does not mold to your sitbones. Now i'm used to it and it's also a great saddle...so far. The benefit is that it's all weatherproof
Thanks for the review If you don't have enough adjustment real-estate, remember you can swap your seatpost to an adequate one with the appropriate position
Yes, but at the time I didn't want to swap a seatpost. I have since installed a suspension seatpost on the bike, but it still doesn't provide enough adjustment.
Love the background music 🎶 and very smooth video editing. I was hooked to your video till the end... Greetings from Deutschland 🇩🇪 I wait for your videos.
Thanks so much! I'm glad you found the video engaging. I'm new to video editing and all that it entails, so it's a work in progress. I'm glad I got this one right! 👍😊
Thank you for this review, I was about to just go buy my wife the short but after seeing this i think were going to take some more measurements before making a decision. I personally ride a selle anatomica and love it. its my first leather saddle and it definitely had its break in period as well. I dont see myself ever going back to a synthetic and plastic saddle.
You gv such a clear explanation and helped me a lot to decide. Hey I just bought me a b17. Thx. I hv found a good way for break in for me. Thought i share. You know like how we roll pancakes, use something like that as a tool. It is much faster and less hurting than using the butt. I use an old handlebar and apply pressure rolling it over and over the saddle. Do it with a little care, might slip if being rather careless. Put proofide or any good quality beeswax based leather balm as well so that the gradual tearing of leather molecules are aided by lubrication. Yes it still need elbow grease but better than butt hurt. Just think of it like gym sessions...helps toning your arm muscles too. Did it in 3 days whenever im free and im quite happy with the result. Different person with stronger or weaker arms might take faster or longer time.
I'm glad you found the video helpful in making a decision. Thanks for sharing how you broke the saddle in! Just a bit of elbow grease. 😂 If it worked, it worked.
Thank you for this review. I bought a Brooks Swift saddle on sale from Nashbar many years ago (before they changed) and I've tried it on multiple bikes and found that I could not break them in. I always felt very uncomfortable even with padded shorts on. I still have it and glad I did not get rid of it. I am going to try to Proofhide on the top and bottom frequently and loosen the tensioning nut to see if I can finally break them in. I also ordered a B17 Special and will look to break them in with ample amount of Proofhide as recommended on this video. I do have to admit, Brooks saddle look just fantastic as everytime I look at it, I want to go riding.
Saddles are so personal. There are many for whom Brooks saddles don't work. For me, I think even an unbroken in saddle is more comfortable than an uncomfortable gel saddle. I've read that some people soad their saddles to soften them, I wouldn't do that as it could damage the leather, but I have had the saddles wet from the rain and it did soften them a bit as well. I also suggest you don't wear padded shorts when breaking them in as the impressions from your sits bones won't form. But again, this is all personal and you have to do what works for you.
Agreed, the regular length is great for my personal female anatomy - I'm now riding an Imperial (B17 with a cut out) . All the reviews on the Brooks website are written by dudes! FYI the short saddle was developed 100 years ago to accommodate women's skirts, not women's anatomy.
Thanks for letting me know what's worked for you! I, too, recently got the Imperial with the cutout for my ebike commuter and love it! When it's time to replace the B17 on my touring bike (I realize it'll be a while), I'll get the Imperial B17. Didn't know the B17s was designed for skirts. I think the regular would be fine for riding in a skirt as well. 🤔
That's impressive. 15 years! It's amazing how comfortable the B17 is. Unfortunately the B17s hasn't worked out and I ended up taking it off my commuter bike.
I've been riding on the Brooks B67 now for over 14,000 km (9400 on my old touring bike, 4600 on my recent touring bike) it's very very comfortable, never had any issues of damage, cracks or slipping and has withstand rain, salty sea spray and even hail without a sign of discomfort... bike touring would not be the same for me without my Brooks!
I have a B17 that’s about 15 years old. It’s supremely comfortable, though it is starting to sag a bit. I had to replace the nose bolt on it, as it snapped, but it’s fairly easy to do.
I'm always amazed when people share that they've had the saddle for 10+ years. That's amazing and speaks to both the quality and the care of the saddle.
Little sidenote: The b17 can be found with springs and comparing the one with and without is a review nobody has seemed to have done. I'm told that the flyer is a b17 with springs. Great review btw, much appreciated.
@@WheelsonaBike I have been enjoying the Suntour SR SP12 Suspension seat Posts but it wouldn`t allow my seat height to be low enough with my one large frame bike. Most of them require about 100mm minimum Extention so when the seat was at it`s lowest I could barely reach my pedals. You need a compact frame with plenty of seatpost length between your seat and the frame. I have a solid seatpost now with a Brooks flyer on route in the mail.
I am loving my brooks saddle with chrome springs on my trekking bike. I rode a Brooks pro saddle for years back in the 70’s. I prefer my selle Italia for my road bikes, WTB for mountain bike and the Brooks for my more upright bikes. I also love riding in regular clothes on my Brooks. I am new to your channel and I am enjoying your through and intelligent approach. I am also impressed with your car free lifestyle, very inspiring.
Thank you for sharing your saddle choices, very valuable. Saddles are so personal so when you find something that works, it's incredible as it makes the riding experience so much more enjoyable.
I have 3 Brooks saddles, the oldest being at least 27 years old and the newest at least 10 years old. They are fantastic. While looking to get another one for a project bike I was building I started remembering some intertoob banter going on about quality control issues at Brooks and warantee issues (Brooks' ownership changed hands a few years ago). I bought a Gilles Berthoud saddle, boy does it make Brooks look (and feel) like some sort of "ham-n-egger" low grade equipment. Try a GB on your next bike, you'll probably agree.
Another GB rider (I recently watched a review on RUclips). I only recently discovered this brand and the saddles do look stunning. I am also curious about the Selle Anatomica saddle. If I continue not being able to adjust the B17S on my commuter bike, I may be looking for a replacement sooner rather than later. Thanks for the suggestion.
@@WheelsonaBike I have heard that the Selle Anatomica leather does not last nearly as long as the leather on GB, Brooks or Rivet saddles. It has been blamed on the cutout/carving being too long. Never owned one but have snooped around a bit before buying my GB.
@@panchoxbrr301 I wonder if that's the reason for the laces on the Imperial Brooks saddle? On second thought ... I just compared the cutouts and the Selle one is much longer. An interesting point to consider.
@@WheelsonaBike I did quite a bit of digging before I shelled out my money. Good luck with whichever saddle you choose. FYI, I don't use the carved / cutout type of saddle on any of my bikes.
I do have a Brooks B17 and I do like it, however I am just breaking it in. I too like the idea of not having to wear padded bike shorts with the Brooks.
I just took out my touring bike for its first ride this season and seemingly forgot how incredibly comfortable my Brooks B17 was. It has well over 10,000 KM on it and it's so comfortable. I recently purchased a new B17 acarved/Imperial and I'll look forward to seeing how I like that one.
I finally purchased the Brooks B17 Special saddle in black leather. I've used it about 100 miles so far, and it's still on the hard side. So much so, I still have to wear padded underwear. I know it's suppose to form from your sit bones, but that's impossible right now due to the fact my bottom hurts too much not to wear something padded. The saddle does feel better than the first day, but it needs probably 500 miles more hopefully. But, it's better than the stock saddle that came with my brompton bike. I've used proofide on it for 3 weeks straight I left it on it on the top and underside. Like a bunch. It helped but not that well.
Based on my personal experience, the saddle just keeps getting better the longer I ride the bike. 100 miles is not very much, this also depends on your weight. If you're lighter, then the break in period will take longer.
Glad the video helped in making your decision. I hope that whatever saddle you do end up getting is comfortable and works well long term. Thanks for watching!
I have now bought 6 saddles and even with padded shorts I find them all not comfortable on my groin area. The sit bones are OK. No way I could even ride them without padded shorts. So the search goes on for an elusive comfortable saddle. Just today by accident I discovered this Brooks B17 saddle and as such watched your very good video on it. I am thinking of buying one but still wonder if they are also not comfortable on the front groin area.
Have you considered looking at the B17 with a cutout? The B17 Imperial? Check it out. Saddles are so difficult to get right, but when you find one that works, it makes all the difference.
@@WheelsonaBike Thanks kindly for your super speedy response. I am considering buying the Brooks B17. Now you say that the Imperial is the best one for comfort?
@@WheelsonaBike 👍YES! I'm a bit overweight, every saddle wears out under me within 1 to 2 years... this Brooks saddle holds! That's the answer to that...
I'm a guy and wondering if I should get the B17s. What's the reason for the standard model to be SO long? I mean the nose of the thing seems to extend farther out than any seat I've ever seen. Do people actually scoot up on the seat just to use the long nose part? Since I'm thinking most people wouldn't do that I'm wondering what the point of that nose is.. The only thing that makes me wonder about the B17s is the fore/aft adjustment. I usually like my seats to be adjusted as far back as possible and was wondering how much of this adjustment I'd be missing with the B17s compared to the standard.. any input on this would be appreciated.
The Champion Standard is not designed specifically for women. Th S version is. But as shared in the video, the ladies standard did not work for me and the regular B17 is perfect.
I bought one, the women's saddle. The second one came included with the bike and I'm glad it did as it's become my favourite saddle I now have on all my bikes. Saddles are personal.
My first Brooks was in 2009 the first year I got my self a Surly Long Haul Trucker that was a good bicycle for sure now I have the Surly Disc Trucker with Disc Breaks I have not yet got a brooks saddle for this bicycle but I'm going to get one I like the hand hammer one the best but as of now they are not in stock thanks to covid19.Before I lost my wife in 2014 she is now in heaven I miss her so much here.But life goes on not easy but that's life for me now days.The B17 Brooks saddle are great like you said it does take time to break them in.First time I got on my B17 my butt hurt lol but after a while it broke in well.I wish you the best on your cycle tours.I did Subscribed to your channel.My wife was only 59 I am now 65 it will soon be 9 years she left me but I know she is in a better place I hope to be with her again someday.
Thank you for your comment and for watching. I'm sorry to hear about your wife, it's clear you miss her very much.
I'm a 6'2 180lb guy and a few weeks ago i bought a very slightly used B17S on ebay for only $70. Honestly, I bought the S model because it was the least expensive one i found. When i first received it it was in need of some deep conditioning, the leather was pretty dried out and almost a grey color. I applied some Bick's Heavy-Duty Leather Preservative, and it brought the leather back to life, it looks brand new and it's a nice rich brown color. As a bonus I found out the saddle was actually the B17S softened version which is more expensive then the regular B17S. I haven't ridden a ton on it yet, i maybe have about 70 miles on it but so far so good, it's not ultra comfy but I expect it will eventually get there. In terms of fit for me, it fits great. The saddle is nice and wide and it being 2 inches shorter then a standard saddle doesn't make it any less comfy. I plan of using the saddle year-round including this winter but plan of slathering more Bick's on it to help with weather resistance. I don't own a car so I ride my bike all year round, even in 2ft of snow, lol.
Excellent to hear. Thank you. This goes to show that gender specific saddle design can sometimes be overlooked. It's all about personal fit, not branding.
I am loving my B17 saddle! I also found it extremely slippery at first but it wasn’t long before I did not notice it anymore. I also have gotten to the point where I can go without bike shorts. Shower caps are just perfect to cover the saddle! I was using a plastic bag but just picked one up for my overnight bike trip a few days ago.
The freedom of not needing to wear padded shorts! I really enjoy this especially so when on tour, as I'm not a fan of wearing "adult diapers" (as someone once told me) for multiple hours/multiple days.
Great review, thanks. Looks like very fine gear indeed.
I bought my B17 saddle 35 years ago. My break-in method was to take a hide faced hammer and give the saddle a good beating with it.
Are you serious?
I do that to all my expensive Wilson gloves and they break in so well. Apply some conditioner and bang bang bang. Also I have left them in my car during summer and let the heat break them in.
B17 were my first Brompton saddle but although lots of grease and using time (under rain too), I ever found it really comfortable, because the saddle remained as hard as a wooden saddle 😮, then I tried the "Swift" model and I can assure that it were another world, 5-6 hours cycling a day with no cycling tecnical shorts without pain or any problem! 😊
Thank you for sharing your experience and for suggesting another saddle to try out. Saddle comfort is so personal. B17 saddles work perfectly for me, but again, not for everyone. Glad to hear your search for a comfortable saddle is over.
Great review.When I ordered my Kona Sutra I asked the bike shop if they could swap out the leather B17 saddle for a Brooks C17 carved saddle,which they did.Weatherproof and maintenance free.It's the most comfortable saddle I've owned,no padded shorts required.I can do a 50 mile ride with no discomfort.It's also vegan friendly for those that don't want a leather saddle.Great content,keep up the good work...it's appreciated.
That's great customer service! I didn't even think of asking, but so far so good with the standard saddle.
Great review looking forward to getting one for my Brompton. Sure it will be comfy after break in period and look awesome too. Thanks taking the time to film and offer your opinion. All the best Pete 🚲
I'm glad you found the review of use. Thanks for watching.
Your review on the Brooks saddle is very helpful. I am considering to buy one and I appreciate this video.
I'm glad you found the review useful. I'll be publishing a follow up re: B17s (Ladies Standard) saddle in the near future.
with all the great saddles out there, there is no reason to use a brooks.
I once heard a great quote: "opinions are like noses, everybody has one." Thanks for sharing yours.
Just discovered your channel and love your videos as I have been cycling since childhood and never really owned a car. I have not driven a care for nearly 7 years now and I cycle everywhere. It is my mode of transport and also for leisure. When weather is good I go on long cycling camping trips around here in Ireland. I have just recently bought a B66 for a number of reasons. I have had two B17s before but upgraded to B66 for both my bikes due to the miles I put up and the roads I have to travel at times. You answered a question for me about the application of the profide and frequency and method of application. Thank you so much and love your lovely manner on video.
I had to check B66 as I wasn't familiar with the model. Interestingly I looked into that saddle, but just recently ended up purchasing a suspension seat post, but have yet to try it out.
Their made 12 miles from me in a very dark and dank factory around the back streets of Birmingham England. Hate to throw a spanner in the works but I could never and I mean never get on with mine!!. Keep Safe and keep up the excellent work!! xx
Yikes! That doesn't sound too appealing! I think saddles are generally a hit or miss. Had my touring bike not come with another Brooks saddle, I wouldn't have bought one, because of my experience with the first one. But I'm glad I got to try the full size saddle, as it's worked out.
Ha! Brummies gonna brummie. Beautiful craftsmanship, which is something I love about the English. BTW, does Brooks have any Royal warrants?
Installed many on customer's bikes, but never even sat on them.
To me, they are a touch of class. A thing of beauty.
My saddle used to be a thing of beauty. After 4 months on tour, it's a "piece of art". 😉
@@WheelsonaBike hahaha 😆..👍
I am a hiker turning biker and found the brand new brooks way more comfortable than the stock rubber saddle my bike came with. I love wearing regular shorts when I ride too. Thanks for the review; subbed!
That's exactly my experience as well. In their most uncomfortable state the Brooks saddles were more comfortable than the synthetic saddles I've tried.
Thanks for subscribing! I appreciate it.
Great review. Let me start by declaring I'm a guy. I just received my new Brompton bicycle in May and by June I realized that the standard saddle that comes with it, does not work for me at all. I needed a wider saddle to ensure my sit bones were happy so I picked up a Brooks B-17S. Even though it's designated a Ladies saddle, it was comfortable right out of the box. You're right that it doesn't have a lot of travel on the rails but I was able to set it up for my riding position. I haven't applied any proofide on it yet but will do so in the near future. I've done a couple of hundred kilometers and so far so good.
That's great to hear you found a saddle that's comfortable for you! And on the first try. I find the women's/men's saddle "marketing" misleading. I have a women's saddle that came with a gravel bike and it is absolutely horrific, doesn't work for me at all.
I have had my Brooks B17 Special for about ten years now and have taken it from my old bike to my new bike. It is getting better all the time and a joy to sit on and ride.
Any shorts will do!
No padding needed!
Great video! Keep up the good work!
Thank you! This is excellent to hear. I'm on a multi month tour right now and the saddle gets more comfortable every day. Still no padded shorts for me.
I just purchased the Brooks B17 Special, and I hope it works out for me. My current seat is so hard, I can only ride very short distances.
Great review! I have used my Brooks B17 Champion saddle for 11 years now. I totally agree with what you said. There is another plus and that is that you do not quickly get sweaty on your buttocks. On my new bike a have the Brooks Cambium. It's made of rubber. It's verry hard and it does not mold to your sitbones. Now i'm used to it and it's also a great saddle...so far. The benefit is that it's all weatherproof
I didn't even think about that, but you're right! Not wearing padded shirts also contributes to not getting as sweaty (for me).
Thanks for the review
If you don't have enough adjustment real-estate, remember you can swap your seatpost to an adequate one with the appropriate position
Yes, but at the time I didn't want to swap a seatpost. I have since installed a suspension seatpost on the bike, but it still doesn't provide enough adjustment.
I have owned two different B17's and loved both of them...
That's great to hear! Thank you for sharing.
Great tips. Just bought the larger B17. Love it.
Glad to hear it! I'm really enjoying the saddle on my current trip.
Love the background music 🎶 and very smooth video editing. I was hooked to your video till the end... Greetings from Deutschland 🇩🇪 I wait for your videos.
And yes, cool bicycle cap 🙂
Thanks so much! I'm glad you found the video engaging. I'm new to video editing and all that it entails, so it's a work in progress. I'm glad I got this one right! 👍😊
Thank you for this review, I was about to just go buy my wife the short but after seeing this i think were going to take some more measurements before making a decision.
I personally ride a selle anatomica and love it. its my first leather saddle and it definitely had its break in period as well. I dont see myself ever going back to a synthetic and plastic saddle.
Glad the review helped in a small way.
You gv such a clear explanation and helped me a lot to decide. Hey I just bought me a b17. Thx.
I hv found a good way for break in for me. Thought i share. You know like how we roll pancakes, use something like that as a tool. It is much faster and less hurting than using the butt. I use an old handlebar and apply pressure rolling it over and over the saddle. Do it with a little care, might slip if being rather careless. Put proofide or any good quality beeswax based leather balm as well so that the gradual tearing of leather molecules are aided by lubrication.
Yes it still need elbow grease but better than butt hurt. Just think of it like gym sessions...helps toning your arm muscles too.
Did it in 3 days whenever im free and im quite happy with the result. Different person with stronger or weaker arms might take faster or longer time.
I'm glad you found the video helpful in making a decision. Thanks for sharing how you broke the saddle in! Just a bit of elbow grease. 😂 If it worked, it worked.
Very well explained.❤ You are a sweetheart.
Glad you found the video helpful.
Thank you for this review. I bought a Brooks Swift saddle on sale from Nashbar many years ago (before they changed) and I've tried it on multiple bikes and found that I could not break them in. I always felt very uncomfortable even with padded shorts on. I still have it and glad I did not get rid of it. I am going to try to Proofhide on the top and bottom frequently and loosen the tensioning nut to see if I can finally break them in. I also ordered a B17 Special and will look to break them in with ample amount of Proofhide as recommended on this video. I do have to admit, Brooks saddle look just fantastic as everytime I look at it, I want to go riding.
Saddles are so personal. There are many for whom Brooks saddles don't work. For me, I think even an unbroken in saddle is more comfortable than an uncomfortable gel saddle. I've read that some people soad their saddles to soften them, I wouldn't do that as it could damage the leather, but I have had the saddles wet from the rain and it did soften them a bit as well. I also suggest you don't wear padded shorts when breaking them in as the impressions from your sits bones won't form. But again, this is all personal and you have to do what works for you.
Agreed, the regular length is great for my personal female anatomy - I'm now riding an Imperial (B17 with a cut out) . All the reviews on the Brooks website are written by dudes! FYI the short saddle was developed 100 years ago to accommodate women's skirts, not women's anatomy.
Thanks for letting me know what's worked for you! I, too, recently got the Imperial with the cutout for my ebike commuter and love it! When it's time to replace the B17 on my touring bike (I realize it'll be a while), I'll get the Imperial B17.
Didn't know the B17s was designed for skirts. I think the regular would be fine for riding in a skirt as well. 🤔
Am looking into either making or purchasing A leather saddle and enjoyed your video very much😁👍
Thank you! And good luck. My vote is for you to make the saddle. Custom fit.
I have a B 17 I’ve been riding for 15 years and it looks new still . And that’s from Babying it. It’s the only Sabo I’ve used on tours
That's impressive. 15 years! It's amazing how comfortable the B17 is. Unfortunately the B17s hasn't worked out and I ended up taking it off my commuter bike.
I've been riding on the Brooks B67 now for over 14,000 km (9400 on my old touring bike, 4600 on my recent touring bike) it's very very comfortable, never had any issues of damage, cracks or slipping and has withstand rain, salty sea spray and even hail without a sign of discomfort... bike touring would not be the same for me without my Brooks!
Just looked up this model and see it has suspension springs. Very glad to know it's served you well over the years.
@@WheelsonaBike Thank you... hope you'll experience it too once you sat on your B17 for thousands of kilometres...
Loving the b17 imperial... i got it soaked and gave it a unique discoloration which i oddly loved more!
I'm on a longer tour right now and the saddle is getting a little discolored. But, as you say, it's unique and I like it.
@@WheelsonaBike 👌 have a safe one and more adventures to you!
Thank you.
I have a B17 that’s about 15 years old. It’s supremely comfortable, though it is starting to sag a bit. I had to replace the nose bolt on it, as it snapped, but it’s fairly easy to do.
I'm always amazed when people share that they've had the saddle for 10+ years. That's amazing and speaks to both the quality and the care of the saddle.
I just bought my B17 saddle and it will eliminate the chafing I experience on 60+ mile rides!
It's a great saddle and I hope it works out for you.
Little sidenote: The b17 can be found with springs and comparing the one with and without is a review nobody has seemed to have done. I'm told that the flyer is a b17 with springs.
Great review btw, much appreciated.
I've often thought of getting the one with springs, but have decided against it and will instead get a suspension seatpost.
@@WheelsonaBike I have been enjoying the Suntour SR SP12 Suspension seat Posts but it wouldn`t allow my seat height to be low enough with my one large frame bike. Most of them require about 100mm minimum Extention so when the seat was at it`s lowest I could barely reach my pedals. You need a compact frame with plenty of seatpost length between your seat and the frame. I have a solid seatpost now with a Brooks flyer on route in the mail.
Hmmm. I see your point. Didn't consider that.
I am loving my brooks saddle with chrome springs on my trekking bike. I rode a Brooks pro saddle for years back in the 70’s. I prefer my selle Italia for my road bikes, WTB for mountain bike and the Brooks for my more upright bikes. I also love riding in regular clothes on my Brooks. I am new to your channel and I am enjoying your through and intelligent approach. I am also impressed with your car free lifestyle, very inspiring.
Thank you for sharing your saddle choices, very valuable. Saddles are so personal so when you find something that works, it's incredible as it makes the riding experience so much more enjoyable.
I have 3 Brooks saddles, the oldest being at least 27 years old and the newest at least 10 years old. They are fantastic. While looking to get another one for a project bike I was building I started remembering some intertoob banter going on about quality control issues at Brooks and warantee issues (Brooks' ownership changed hands a few years ago). I bought a Gilles Berthoud saddle, boy does it make Brooks look (and feel) like some sort of "ham-n-egger" low grade equipment. Try a GB on your next bike, you'll probably agree.
Another GB rider (I recently watched a review on RUclips). I only recently discovered this brand and the saddles do look stunning. I am also curious about the Selle Anatomica saddle. If I continue not being able to adjust the B17S on my commuter bike, I may be looking for a replacement sooner rather than later. Thanks for the suggestion.
@@WheelsonaBike I have heard that the Selle Anatomica leather does not last nearly as long as the leather on GB, Brooks or Rivet saddles. It has been blamed on the cutout/carving being too long. Never owned one but have snooped around a bit before buying my GB.
@@panchoxbrr301 I wonder if that's the reason for the laces on the Imperial Brooks saddle? On second thought ... I just compared the cutouts and the Selle one is much longer. An interesting point to consider.
@@WheelsonaBike I did quite a bit of digging before I shelled out my money. Good luck with whichever saddle you choose. FYI, I don't use the carved / cutout type of saddle on any of my bikes.
Curious to hear your experience with the Giles Berthoud saddles.. which ones did you go for? (At the moment I'm using 2 brooks b17 imperials
I've just bought a b17 short ladies. Finfers crossed its the right choice.
It may very well be!
I do have a Brooks B17 and I do like it, however I am just breaking it in. I too like the idea of not having to wear padded bike shorts with the Brooks.
I just took out my touring bike for its first ride this season and seemingly forgot how incredibly comfortable my Brooks B17 was. It has well over 10,000 KM on it and it's so comfortable. I recently purchased a new B17 acarved/Imperial and I'll look forward to seeing how I like that one.
I finally purchased the Brooks B17 Special saddle in black leather. I've used it about 100 miles so far, and it's still on the hard side. So much so, I still have to wear padded underwear. I know it's suppose to form from your sit bones, but that's impossible right now due to the fact my bottom hurts too much not to wear something padded. The saddle does feel better than the first day, but it needs probably 500 miles more hopefully. But, it's better than the stock saddle that came with my brompton bike. I've used proofide on it for 3 weeks straight I left it on it on the top and underside. Like a bunch. It helped but not that well.
Based on my personal experience, the saddle just keeps getting better the longer I ride the bike. 100 miles is not very much, this also depends on your weight. If you're lighter, then the break in period will take longer.
@@WheelsonaBike Thank you for responding. Hopefully, more hours on it will help out 🤞
Great review. You've made my mind up, I'm not getting one.
Glad the video helped in making your decision. I hope that whatever saddle you do end up getting is comfortable and works well long term. Thanks for watching!
Спасибо, очень интересно.
Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for watching.
I have now bought 6 saddles and even with padded shorts I find them all not comfortable on my groin area. The sit bones are OK. No way I could even ride them without padded shorts. So the search goes on for an elusive comfortable saddle. Just today by accident I discovered this Brooks B17 saddle and as such watched your very good video on it. I am thinking of buying one but still wonder if they are also not comfortable on the front groin area.
Have you considered looking at the B17 with a cutout? The B17 Imperial? Check it out. Saddles are so difficult to get right, but when you find one that works, it makes all the difference.
@@WheelsonaBike Thanks kindly for your super speedy response. I am considering buying the
Brooks B17. Now you say that the Imperial is the best one for comfort?
I'm not saying it's the best one, I can't make that judgement call for you. I am providing anothet option for you to consider.
Just ordered a B-17 saddle. I'll let you know how long it takes to break in. Thanks for sharing your experience with the two Brooks saddles.
I hope it works out for you! Yes, please let me know what your experience breaking it in is like.
I bought Brompton B75, I found the saddle is uncomfortable, looking to replace it, looking into brooks, not sure yet. Great video thanks
Good luck finding a saddle that fits. It's a bit of a process. I'm glad you found the vide of value. Thanks for watching!
Only leather can replace leather... Brooks are the best saddles in the world! Must-have for all bike-touring!
Sounds like you're a big fan of Brooks saddles.
@@WheelsonaBike 👍YES! I'm a bit overweight, every saddle wears out under me within 1 to 2 years... this Brooks saddle holds! That's the answer to that...
I also bought the Kona Sutra with the B17 saddle and the rails are too short for me :(
For me the rails were too short on the B17 women's. The standard is fine. Too bad the standard saddle didn't work out for you.
Wonderful video thank you. From what outlet did you purchase the honey color saddle? Thanks again and God bless.
Thank you for watching. The honey coloured saddle came stock with my bike, so I didn't out right buy it.
Water damage or patina? :)
I'm a guy and wondering if I should get the B17s. What's the reason for the standard model to be SO long? I mean the nose of the thing seems to extend farther out than any seat I've ever seen. Do people actually scoot up on the seat just to use the long nose part? Since I'm thinking most people wouldn't do that I'm wondering what the point of that nose is.. The only thing that makes me wonder about the B17s is the fore/aft adjustment. I usually like my seats to be adjusted as far back as possible and was wondering how much of this adjustment I'd be missing with the B17s compared to the standard.. any input on this would be appreciated.
Theres about an inch of a difference between the rails on the B17s and the B17 Standard. It's considerable.
@@WheelsonaBike thank you. 👍
It took 6,000km to break in my B17.
That is a long while. How did you know it was fully broken in?
@@WheelsonaBike It became like a hammock in the middle, which also meant it needed tightening up.
Does the Champion Standard B17 designed for men or women?
The Champion Standard is not designed specifically for women. Th S version is. But as shared in the video, the ladies standard did not work for me and the regular B17 is perfect.
@@WheelsonaBike Thank you 😊
if your on the fence on a saddle, why would you buy two of these crappy saddles?
I bought one, the women's saddle. The second one came included with the bike and I'm glad it did as it's become my favourite saddle I now have on all my bikes. Saddles are personal.