Thanks for watching! Please support the channel by shopping for some Brooks gear here: Brooks B17 saddle: amzn.to/3cCgOY7 Proofide: amzn.to/3cFkGre Bartape: amzn.to/3bCuIIl Leather tool bag: amzn.to/3dPnxy6
For rain prevention I use a helmet cover w/3 coats of a white spirits/clear caulk solution mixed 50/50. 2" China bristle brush. I coat the inside and outside paying particulat attention to any seams. It's a 3 day process. You gotta let it dry completely between each coat. Works a treat, too. 3 of our bikes have Brooks saddles. Black, honey and brown. They all have the spirit/clear caulk bike helmet covers. It rains alot in Wellington, NZ, so these covers are utilized quite often. That's my story and I'm sticking to it. Cheers, mates from New Zealand! 🇳🇿
i've had a b17 for at leased 20 years, it go's from bike to bike, it's now on my motus grand tour e-bike, and yes it bought a cover as it rains a lot in England
I am 67 Years old and buying my first B-17 saddle, mainly because I had to give away my B-72 saddle that I have had since I was 17. Yes that's correct FOR 50 YEARS! And it was on alike newTrek560( bought 1983) They are BULLET PROOF, as you can see durable. But after 50 years it does not fit the new style seat post. And a new post in carbon is more than the seat. so the seat-and bike- went to a new home. And I will have to break in a new seat. I just do not know if the 17 can replace the 72. But with patience nothing is better than Brooks. PERIOD
@Steven Vanlancker Mine took about 50 total miles to get comfortable to ride beyond 17 non stop. Only problem I have had is getting the Brooks dressing for the saddle. So maybe took longer?
I've ridden Brooks for 56 years. I still have one from 1964 and another, 1968. My latest is from 2008. I still average over 10,000 miles per year. I'm actually faster over an entire ride because I'm not thinking about my butt. I've experimented at times throughout the years with other saddles. Some are ok for a short time, but always wish I was riding the Brooks before the day is over. I proofide the thing top and bottom every six months. Takes about 10 minutes. It's been soaked during touring for an entire day and never degenerates. Proofide helps seal. The English cowhide that Brooks selects is the reason no one else has been as successful. I'm not a prissy guy, so looks would not matter. No poser! Just no need to waste money on anything else. Weight? BS. Get one.
@@TailHappyTV oh my. "Inspiration" would make my wife laugh to death! Ha! I'm nothing more than a regular guy as all who know me would say, At least I hope.....Thanks!
Not sure whether it was my younger anatomy but I remember my first proper bike (a Raleigh racer or what would now be a road bike) came with a Brooks and was the most comfortable thing I have ever ridden. I must have ridden that thing for thousands of miles over many years and abused in ways that would just not be considered now, it was a road bike, mountain bike and BMX, and all the while with it’s Brooks.
I bought my first B17 in the late '80s but unfortunately I killed it too soon because of non/bad/wrong care, I was young didn't know what I was doing. I tried many seats over the decades but the B17 is for my lower end the best even out of the box. I use B17's on several bikes for years on a Single Speed Commuter on a Touring Bike and a Surly Pugsley the only seat that doesn't give me grief and I still love the classic look + style but I learned from the mistakes of my youth and they are perfect for a long time.
Ive had mine for years. Commuting and weekend rides in the Pacific Northwest. Its seen a lot of rain and still looks great. That being said, i do put a waterproof cover on it when i have to leave it parked in the rain for a few minutes. But it still takes a beating in the rain and looks/feels better by the mile.
@@Ostebugle Yes. I ride mine 15-30 miles per ride, 4-5 times per week. I've only got 30 hours in the saddle so far, and it's already way more comfortable than when I first got it. Hang in there, mine was hard as a rock when it first arrived and made me sore, but that quickly got better. These saddles only get better with age if you take care of them.
I bought mine used (but excellent condition) about 6-7 years ago after hating a Selle Royal. One of the things I love about my b17s is that it has a natural amount of spring in it which makes going over rough roads a bit bouncier. :)
Thanks for the video! I'm at the 30 hour mark of saddle time on my B17 which I got in July and it's gone from feeling like rock hard plastic to feeling like real leather. It should be the last saddle I'll ever need. Very comfortable now, unlike at the beginning.
Awesome to hear! I've been adding proofide to mine more regularly and I think it's helping it break in better! Plus I just like putting it on, makes me feel good!
People tend to go for the B17 as it’s the quintessential Brooks BUT it’s really only good for bikes where the bars are higher, level, or only very slightly lower. If you ride with any drop look at the Swallows or Swifts as those are more the ‘racing saddle’ equivalents.
I am soooo happy. I bought a few weeks ago an ebike. Since then I faced saddle pain. I went to the bike shop this morning for a saddle test. I was about to buy a new saddle. I took the brooks saddle with me from my forgotten bike behind in the garage that I used intensive and daily till 14 years ago.I am from the Netherlands and it is normal here to bike for shoppings, as transportation on daily base. I told him that I never had pain with that saddle. I gained weight these last years but the shopowner suggested to try this old and ugly saddle on my new ebike. It is amazing, it is the most comfortable saddle that I tried, so now I am going to cycle around with this ugly old dried saddle with cracks on the surface, totally not matching this beautiful bike, but I don't care.It just needed to replace the seatpost. I really hope my ebike is never going to be stolen because I am affraid that a new Brooks saddle can't replace this old one. I never greased this saddle, never cared about it, it caught many rain, even got frozen many times. Shall I put proofide on it or not? I am affraid the leather is getting weak?
Epic! I visited Amsterdam and was amazed by the number of bikes there! It is such a neat part of the world. I'm happy the seat is working well for you too. As far as adding proofide now, I honestly cannot say what the right call is now. Seems like it could be a gamble!
Great review, I love the comment about stopping off at the pub for a pint (especially on an English saddle) :-) Ps I've ridden my B17 soaked a few times in the rain, mainly from spray underneath and its fine, just needed tensioning a bit when dry.
I love all things English bicycle related. I own 2 brooks saddles, a B17S (actually a woman’s version but got a great deal on it) on a gravel bike, and a sprung flyer on an old Fuji team that I converted into a more upright riding position.🇺🇸🚴🚴🚴
My Brooks Flyer, pre-aged with the springs and leather thongs on the side, has taken some 7 to 800 miles to mould to my sit bones. Never use padded shorts. You have to persist with a Brooks if you want the best from it.
I humbly agree. You have to take it for a spin every day that's how you condition your gluten muscles to adapt to the saddle. Just around the block will be fine then rub a dimes size of proofide over the leather and your saddle will love you for it.
I bought a B17 just because I could long before I saw this video. I found it amazingly comfortable after a week or so. I got the Brooks rain cover off ebay but I notice your amazon link shows the cover down with the frequently bought together. Maybe I bought it for the panache or maybe not... but it certainly has earned my thumbs-up.
The addle won’t be ruined if it’s wet. I’ve my das used his for 20 years. It may get some discoloration but it will be fine. Off course it’s leather so oil it but still. These saddles are durable af.
Im a completely new cyclist (bought the 2020 Marin Nicasio, properly fitted). I rode the stock seat once with padded shorts and my rear had shooting pain. Installed brand new B17 on my second ride, no padded shorts, and the pain was 90% gone. Hope this helps
The idea behind "padded" shorts isn't the padding at all. Never has been. A saddle provides the "padding," and shorts provide the best environment for your skin. A proper saddle that fits your sit bones and some cycling musculature is what keeps you happy, padding-wise. Shorts with quality chamois keeps your skin happy so you can ride multiple days in a row without issue. Or with the fewest issues possible. Some suffer from saddle sores no matter how good their hygiene is and what steps they've taken to remedy them.
I have had four Brooks saddles over 20 years. I have had a love/hate relationship with them. They have the correct shape and width for my large American butt. However, they are hard as a rock when new. I have tried everything to make them rideable. I have done the proofide only, various oils and greases, used a hairdryer, I tried about everything I read that other people have tried. The Brooks feel great the first five miles and then it turns to pain. They gave me long lasting bruises. On the first three I owned I rode them between 1000 to 2000 miles, but they never became comfortable. You might ask why I would stay with the Brooks. When I ride other saddles they never feel right. Too narrow, wrong shape, etc. I kept coming back to Brooks. With my fourth B17 I was trying just Proofide with the usual painful results. I decided to try a new method. I coated the saddle with neatsfoot oil and baked it in the oven. Twice. I know people say some of these methods will make the leather too soft and ruin it, but after torturing four Brooks saddles that has not been my experience. All remained fairly hard and they have not stretched. After baking my Brooks is now comfortable. And it fits! Finally a good Brooks experience.
@@paulpatriot1776 I found this method on a cycling forum but I don’t remember where. I am sure it was under 200F, likely 150F, for 45 minutes each time. My B17 leather remains hard to the touch, not soft, but it no longer causes me pain or bruises. I have a Flyer on another bike with well over 2500 miles on the saddle. That one I probably gave a dozen treatments of Proofide, neatsfoot, and mink oil, most using a hair dryer to heat. It finally is rideable, but the oven method took much less time. I have read about methods where people soak their saddle in hot water, but I am leery of this method. I have a friend who forgot his Brooks out in the rain and it softened it so much it ruined it.
I have a Brooks Swallow Titanium with Brooks Ergo grips on one of my vintage XC bikes. Even being titanium it weighs twice as much as a race saddle. That said it looks beautiful and is becoming comfortable. I wish I could say the same about the grips. If I wasn't so vain I would have had the removed. They're awful and give me aches and pains. Sadly they also cost multiples of the good quality albeit less fancy looking grips that I removed. Grrr!
I'm a heavy rider looking to break my "overstuffed padded Selle Royal spring-loaded saddle" habit. I'm constantly moving forward and backward trying to reduce the "bum burn" every tenth of a mile. I get the feeling this one's worth trying long term. My only worry is that I will break the rails due to metal fatigue (ask me how I know this can be a problem, lol)!
I know what you mean. That iron frame supporying the saddle leather really did have just the right amount of torsion to soak up the average minor bump in the asphalt. It was like a caddilac for the rear end. That and prperly tensioned spokes and you didnt need this plastowhammy didgery doo for soaking up bumps in the way. Next thing you know well all be riding saw horses.
Getting wet doesn't damage them. Just let it dry out. You can use walking boot conditioner, called Dubbin' in the UK. Pile it on both on the top and underside. Your bike will die before this will. It is in fact winter proof. Beeswax if the weather is a bit tough.
I use Sno-Seal (a Beeswax Product) to make the leather literally waterproof on my Brooks saddles for over 20 years besides other leather boots + goods for all weather outdoor use even longer. I actually don't really like Proofide because it's a strange blend of fat + wax, the tanning process tries very hard to remove all fat why putting fat back, Dubbin is also a blend of fat/oil + wax. I use a hair dryer so the Sno-Seal soaked into the leather from the underside around the rivets the edges several times and the top and polish the top after. It doesn't make the leather softer the only thing what should soften the leather is your butt and riding the thing.
I'm seriously considering getting this saddle, mostly based on looks plus the fact that I've purchased probably 10 saddles in the last 8yrs and have yet to find one that is comfortable. I'm not a serious road cyclist and maybe only ride 3 miles a day so I'm kind of torn on whether I should buy one. If I do then I'd definitely spay it with a leather Waterproofer. I'm assuming the same stuff I use on my leather boots would work fine for waterproofing a leather saddle.
My wife complained about every saddle she had until she got the Brooks ladies. My B17 is also comfortable, with previous saddles it took a few uncomfortable rides when I get back to cycling after the snow season but not with the Brooks. I recommend you get the "aged" version I think they call it which is chemically softened to reduce the break in period. Best to get a can of the Brooks Proofide to treat it, a little sachet comes with the saddle but you will need more. I would also buy a saddle cover to protect it from the rain, or use a shower cap etc. rather than waterproofer. A big advantage of leather is that it breathes.
@@glennet9613 I bought a used B17-S on ebay a few days ago. It's in awesome condition and I only paid $71.00 for it. It arrives Monday, it will be interesting though since it is the shorter women's version and i'm 6'2 185lbs but I do have wider sit bones at around 170mm. Hopefully it works out, it seems there is a very big market for used Brooks saddles most likely because people didn't want to take the time to break them in. Also i think I might have gotten the "softened" version because the leather at the top of the saddle looks different then the leather on the sides of the saddle.
I love my 'B17 Carved' with cut out middle and laces. It makes every other saddle I have owned seem like a painful joke, but I would never recommend one. How can you recommend a saddle? We all have different needs, tastes, riding styles and shady areas. Some people loath them. If you buy one it's a gamble. I am glad that I took the financial risk however. Wish that I'd done it years ago.
Belch! Brooks. Belch brooks belch brooks. The belch equals relief for the derriere. Belch brooks. They were and pobably still are the go to for bicycle saddle relief.
Been considering buying a honey B17 for my candy apple green Peugeot UO9 fixed gear conversion. Though I wonder if it'll be ideal for how I ride - mainly city riding (at most ~20 miles) but I like to do short sprints from time to time.
I have a B17 with well over a 100 miles that I proofide regularly and it hasn't broken in or feel more comfortable than other seats. I have a friend with even more miles on his with the same issue. What are we doing wrong?
Can't find an email address to contact you otherwise, but here's a saddle related question: I've been working to get my SF-B1805 set up better and my wtb saddle is just not cutting it. Sit bone measurement is 139.7mm, (female rider here.) Was wondering if you or especially your partner have any recommendations for saddles? I tend to sit super duper far back on every saddle I've ever had. I'll be alternating between road stance and maybe thirty percent semi upright on stretch/weight sections. I'm leaning toward something by fizik or selle italia but I think it's because I'm charmed by the cutouts and the geometry as opposed to the more curvy looking creations out there. Also I have no interest in squishy gel which I imagine you can understand. Thanks for all of your videos about the sf1850, it really helped me make the right decision as I was in the market for something with clout and adjustability and silence. Wish I could rotate the handlebars as with an outdoor setup but I've not seen any exercise models that went that far with features. I'm sure there's someone out there who could correct me on that. Now just trying to figure out seat remedy. Thanks in advance for anyone else's input too.
Thanks for your detailed comment, happy to hear you’ve found the right bike for you! As far as saddles, I don’t think I can be much help here, it’s just such an individual preference kinda thing. I’m still rolling with my same brooks saddle 😜
it's expensive. I have 2. They "break-in" fairly quickly. Like any leather work of quality - you have to look after the leather, just like a $120 pair of shoes. Upside: 10 years later (or more) the saddle's still providing brilliant riding. You can buy a good squeezy, gell-filled saddle, $40. 2 years later it's got a hole in it and/or the material has hardened off - and - it was missing any style from the first day you bought it to the day your sell it in a garage sale for 5 bucks.
excellent comment! i totally agree, i wasted so much money buying padded seats and other saddles that were all eventually worth nothing. i think the thing i like best about this saddle is the beautiful look of it with the genuine leather, and obviously it feels nice to ride too, and no need for special cycling shorts!
Only use proofide on a brooks. They are designed to accept proofide nothing else. Dont even think of neatsfoot, it will soften it too much and rip right off the rivets and frame. New brooks dont let a soul other than yourself ride it. If it seems hard use the proofide. Use a showercap in wet weather. If you have a neglected dryed out brooks saddle dont put oil on it. Only proofide. You might just take it to a saddle maker and have new leather riveted on. But ive never done this so its probably better to just buy a new brooks. Your bottom will love you for it!😅
I've been using padded shorts/underwear because it's still too hard without them. I've ridden about 100 miles and it still hurts without padded underwear.
@@TailHappyTV, I have five bikes, four have Brooks saddles, tried many until a buddy recommended them, never looked back. Have a sprung b17 on mountain bike, oldest and so comfortable now, a green one on my old steel Raleigh Royale, colour much nicer now worn in, and I have put 2.5 k miles on my new b17 in six months, no friction like those gel saddles. Now thinking about another for my roadie. Great video btw, always food for thought.
The Brooks seats "mold to your particular anatomy" is a myth. Yes I agree that it looks great, but I think the main reason they are so expensive is because the production cost in the US is high. Their overall quality does not add up to their price. I am disappointed with the one I have. I honestly think that the original Brompton seats are better.
I just ordered a B17 Special version because I can't ride my new Brompton with the original seat. I tried for two days and my rear end has been in severe pain. I sure hope the B17 I order works out better or I'll need to wear padded shorts ☹️
How did you manage to keep the rivets so shiny? Mine rusted in a year :-( No question about the comfort though. I bought it for the traditional value of it.
@@TailHappyTV Which is exactly the case with me as well but to opposite effect ☺️☺️ I live in a very humid part of the world. That might explain my rust. I have accepted it as "adds character to the bike".
What ever you do dont use olive oil on it. I believe it degenerates the leather. Also dont let any water touch it. Use the proofide according to directions. Invest in a shower cap to cover it in nasty weather and I would think you might not ever have to buy a saddle ever again. But thats only if you buy it new and lavish it with attention.
I recently bought a Brompton P Line Electric. I’m 75 and I’d ridden the Brooks B17 saddle for decades when I was young. But in the last 20 years, maybe more, I’d chosen saddles on new bikes that eliminated the break-in period required of the Brooks. But for the new Brompton, I went back to the Brooks……honey colour, hammered rivets and copper rails. Looked like a million on the P Line. ENORMOUS MISTAKE. I think it hurt more with each outing. I began to dread heading out on the bike. Finally I said……. ENOUGH! I just sold it for a pittance of what I paid but I paid. I know, I know. There will be a flood of harda-es out there ready to offer advice. Please. Save it. I don’t need your ‘wisdom’. At 75, I don’t have the luxury of time to break in a torturous saddle. I’m now perched happily on a SERFAS saddle that was instantly welcoming to my aging parts. The end. (…no pun intended)
@@TailHappyTV, I guess im a little Hipsterish too, i own their grips, lol. But lets be honest, is the saddle getting broken in, or is your seat bone just getting used to it? They look great on the right bike, but i call BS on the break in.
@@kingchakazulu7762 I think you're right, I forgot to put the proofide on the bottom side of the leather too, it's getting more broken in now. I've been thinking about pranking my gf and putting the brooks saddle on her Peloton
I bought one from Amazon and after a while it needed to be adjusted, It would not adjust, the bolt just went around which ever way you turned it with no movement of the screw. this is a KNOWN problem with them and has never been addressed. I contacted Brooks as it was well within warranty and they did not want to know as It was bought through Amazon and not from them, they did offer to fix it though, for a price. So good saddle, really shit customer service, Be warned, Heritage isn't everything.
Interesting, thanks for sharing! I've never had to adjust mine yet. Also, "Brooks England" is the "official" seller of this item, the link I provide is to buy through them and not some random third party seller. I definitely would not buy from a third party. Also it looks like they are offering a 12% discount right now, wish I got that!
@@TailHappyTV It's OK chap, My remark was for anybody who was thinking of buying a "Brooks" Saddle through Amazon as a warning about "Brooks" and their customer service or the lack thereof.
I don't think it would make any difference if you bought it direct, anyway that is a lame excuse by Brooks, there is plenty reputable bike shops out there selling Brooks saddles. If there is a manufacturing fault within warranty period they should address it. I just bought a Brooks Team Pro Special and it had a protruding brass rivet on the surface, should be hammered flush. Also the right side is shaped differently to the left, not as curved, more sharp edges to it. These sharp edges are digging into my right thigh on the back stroke. I think they fitted the frame underneath crooked but they should round the frame more also to get rid of this sharp meeting point between leather and frame (Saddle frame). I wouldn't buy another Brooks, I just bought a Gilles Berthoud Mente and hopefully it will be super comfortable, sadly this was the saddle I originally picked but I was swayed by all the hype around Brooks. I let you know what I think of the Gilles Berthoud Mente when I ride it if you are interested.
@@TailHappyTV No need to adjust. It will only destroy the saddle in the end, like what happened to a friend of mine with B17. I use B17 titanium saddle on my hardtail and full suspension bikes. Swallow titanium saddle on my road bike, no need for padded shorts on 4 hours trip. The best saddles out there, will never use anything else.
I think they look absolutely amazing, but not for someone who wears cycling specific bib shorts/bib pants (which have cushions). I want to put it on my new gravel build, but I like to wear my bibs lol.
Thanks for watching! Please support the channel by shopping for some Brooks gear here:
Brooks B17 saddle: amzn.to/3cCgOY7
Proofide: amzn.to/3cFkGre
Bartape: amzn.to/3bCuIIl
Leather tool bag: amzn.to/3dPnxy6
drinking game: everytime he says „brooks saddle“ :)))) cheers
Lol, I'd play that game
JESUS WOULD BE PARALETIC LOL
For rain prevention I use a helmet cover w/3 coats of a white spirits/clear caulk solution mixed 50/50. 2" China bristle brush. I coat the inside and outside paying particulat attention to any seams. It's a 3 day process. You gotta let it dry completely between each coat. Works a treat, too. 3 of our bikes have Brooks saddles. Black, honey and brown. They all have the spirit/clear caulk bike helmet covers. It rains alot in Wellington, NZ, so these covers are utilized quite often. That's my story and I'm sticking to it. Cheers, mates from New Zealand! 🇳🇿
i've had a b17 for at leased 20 years, it go's from bike to bike, it's now on my motus grand tour e-bike, and yes it bought a cover as it rains a lot in England
I am 67 Years old and buying my first B-17 saddle, mainly because I had to give away my B-72 saddle that I have had since I was 17. Yes that's correct FOR 50 YEARS! And it was on alike newTrek560( bought 1983) They are BULLET PROOF, as you can see durable. But after 50 years it does not fit the new style seat post. And a new post in carbon is more than the seat. so the seat-and bike- went to a new home. And I will have to break in a new seat. I just do not know if the 17 can replace the 72. But with patience nothing is better than Brooks. PERIOD
Its great to hear this was a good investment!
Amazing!! I thought my b66 is old (Dom 1984).
Why would you buy a carbon seat post in combination with a brooks saddle?
@Steven Vanlancker Mine took about 50 total miles to get comfortable to ride beyond 17 non stop. Only problem I have had is getting the Brooks dressing for the saddle. So maybe took longer?
I bought a B.17 a few years ago as an investment. Best money spent - ! Once it's broken in, amazingly comfortable and no padded shorts required - !
I've ridden Brooks for 56 years. I still have one from 1964 and another, 1968. My latest is from 2008. I still average over 10,000 miles per year. I'm actually faster over an entire ride because I'm not thinking about my butt. I've experimented at times throughout the years with other saddles. Some are ok for a short time, but always wish I was riding the Brooks before the day is over. I proofide the thing top and bottom every six months. Takes about 10 minutes. It's been soaked during touring for an entire day and never degenerates. Proofide helps seal. The English cowhide that Brooks selects is the reason no one else has been as successful. I'm not a prissy guy, so looks would not matter. No poser! Just no need to waste money on anything else. Weight? BS. Get one.
That's epic! Great to hear from a long time brooks saddle rider! I can't believe you still have saddles from the 60s. You are my inspiration sir.
@@TailHappyTV oh my. "Inspiration" would make my wife laugh to death! Ha! I'm nothing more than a regular guy as all who know me would say, At least I hope.....Thanks!
Not sure whether it was my younger anatomy but I remember my first proper bike (a Raleigh racer or what would now be a road bike) came with a Brooks and was the most comfortable thing I have ever ridden. I must have ridden that thing for thousands of miles over many years and abused in ways that would just not be considered now, it was a road bike, mountain bike and BMX, and all the while with it’s Brooks.
I like how you've matched your handle-bar tape to the sadle's colour.
Thanks! I really like the look too
I bought my first B17 in the late '80s but unfortunately I killed it too soon because of non/bad/wrong care, I was young didn't know what I was doing. I tried many seats over the decades but the B17 is for my lower end the best even out of the box. I use B17's on several bikes for years on a Single Speed Commuter on a Touring Bike and a Surly Pugsley the only seat that doesn't give me grief and I still love the classic look + style but I learned from the mistakes of my youth and they are perfect for a long time.
Ive had mine for years. Commuting and weekend rides in the Pacific Northwest. Its seen a lot of rain and still looks great. That being said, i do put a waterproof cover on it when i have to leave it parked in the rain for a few minutes. But it still takes a beating in the rain and looks/feels better by the mile.
Nice! I'm jealous of your cycling community in the pacific northwest!
Would this saddle be good for a 25 miles daily ride, my current saddle makes my butt hurt after riding it
@@Ostebugle Yes. I ride mine 15-30 miles per ride, 4-5 times per week. I've only got 30 hours in the saddle so far, and it's already way more comfortable than when I first got it. Hang in there, mine was hard as a rock when it first arrived and made me sore, but that quickly got better. These saddles only get better with age if you take care of them.
I bought mine used (but excellent condition) about 6-7 years ago after hating a Selle Royal. One of the things I love about my b17s is that it has a natural amount of spring in it which makes going over rough roads a bit bouncier. :)
Thanks for the video! I'm at the 30 hour mark of saddle time on my B17 which I got in July and it's gone from feeling like rock hard plastic to feeling like real leather. It should be the last saddle I'll ever need. Very comfortable now, unlike at the beginning.
Awesome to hear! I've been adding proofide to mine more regularly and I think it's helping it break in better! Plus I just like putting it on, makes me feel good!
People tend to go for the B17 as it’s the quintessential Brooks BUT it’s really only good for bikes where the bars are higher, level, or only very slightly lower. If you ride with any drop look at the Swallows or Swifts as those are more the ‘racing saddle’ equivalents.
I am soooo happy. I bought a few weeks ago an ebike. Since then I faced saddle pain. I went to the bike shop this morning for a saddle test. I was about to buy a new saddle. I took the brooks saddle with me from my forgotten bike behind in the garage that I used intensive and daily till 14 years ago.I am from the Netherlands and it is normal here to bike for shoppings, as transportation on daily base. I told him that I never had pain with that saddle. I gained weight these last years but the shopowner suggested to try this old and ugly saddle on my new ebike. It is amazing, it is the most comfortable saddle that I tried, so now I am going to cycle around with this ugly old dried saddle with cracks on the surface, totally not matching this beautiful bike, but I don't care.It just needed to replace the seatpost. I really hope my ebike is never going to be stolen because I am affraid that a new Brooks saddle can't replace this old one. I never greased this saddle, never cared about it, it caught many rain, even got frozen many times. Shall I put proofide on it or not? I am affraid the leather is getting weak?
Epic! I visited Amsterdam and was amazed by the number of bikes there! It is such a neat part of the world. I'm happy the seat is working well for you too. As far as adding proofide now, I honestly cannot say what the right call is now. Seems like it could be a gamble!
I'd say get a new brooks saddle 😁
Best seat ever made period.
Great review, I love the comment about stopping off at the pub for a pint (especially on an English saddle) :-)
Ps I've ridden my B17 soaked a few times in the rain, mainly from spray underneath and its fine, just needed tensioning a bit when dry.
I love all things English bicycle related.
I own 2 brooks saddles, a B17S (actually a woman’s version but got a great deal on it) on a gravel bike, and a sprung flyer on an old Fuji team that I converted into a more upright riding position.🇺🇸🚴🚴🚴
My Brooks Flyer, pre-aged with the springs and leather thongs on the side, has taken some 7 to 800 miles to mould to my sit bones. Never use padded shorts. You have to persist with a Brooks if you want the best from it.
I humbly agree. You have to take it for a spin every day that's how you condition your gluten muscles to adapt to the saddle. Just around the block will be fine then rub a dimes size of proofide over the leather and your saddle will love you for it.
I bought a B17 just because I could long before I saw this video. I found it amazingly comfortable after a week or so. I got the Brooks rain cover off ebay but I notice your amazon link shows the cover down with the frequently bought together. Maybe I bought it for the panache or maybe not... but it certainly has earned my thumbs-up.
The addle won’t be ruined if it’s wet. I’ve my das used his for 20 years. It may get some discoloration but it will be fine. Off course it’s leather so oil it but still. These saddles are durable af.
Im a completely new cyclist (bought the 2020 Marin Nicasio, properly fitted). I rode the stock seat once with padded shorts and my rear had shooting pain. Installed brand new B17 on my second ride, no padded shorts, and the pain was 90% gone. Hope this helps
Great to hear!
The idea behind "padded" shorts isn't the padding at all. Never has been. A saddle provides the "padding," and shorts provide the best environment for your skin. A proper saddle that fits your sit bones and some cycling musculature is what keeps you happy, padding-wise. Shorts with quality chamois keeps your skin happy so you can ride multiple days in a row without issue. Or with the fewest issues possible. Some suffer from saddle sores no matter how good their hygiene is and what steps they've taken to remedy them.
Obviously Brooks saddle name dropping competition
My B17 Softened was comfortable out of the box. I love it to bits.
I have had four Brooks saddles over 20 years. I have had a love/hate relationship with them. They have the correct shape and width for my large American butt. However, they are hard as a rock when new. I have tried everything to make them rideable. I have done the proofide only, various oils and greases, used a hairdryer, I tried about everything I read that other people have tried. The Brooks feel great the first five miles and then it turns to pain. They gave me long lasting bruises. On the first three I owned I rode them between 1000 to 2000 miles, but they never became comfortable. You might ask why I would stay with the Brooks. When I ride other saddles they never feel right. Too narrow, wrong shape, etc. I kept coming back to Brooks. With my fourth B17 I was trying just Proofide with the usual painful results. I decided to try a new method. I coated the saddle with neatsfoot oil and baked it in the oven. Twice. I know people say some of these methods will make the leather too soft and ruin it, but after torturing four Brooks saddles that has not been my experience. All remained fairly hard and they have not stretched. After baking my Brooks is now comfortable. And it fits! Finally a good Brooks experience.
Thank you for this info. Could I ask you what temperature and for how long you put your saddle in the oven?👍🇺🇸
@@paulpatriot1776 I found this method on a cycling forum but I don’t remember where. I am sure it was under 200F, likely 150F, for 45 minutes each time. My B17 leather remains hard to the touch, not soft, but it no longer causes me pain or bruises. I have a Flyer on another bike with well over 2500 miles on the saddle. That one I probably gave a dozen treatments of Proofide, neatsfoot, and mink oil, most using a hair dryer to heat. It finally is rideable, but the oven method took much less time. I have read about methods where people soak their saddle in hot water, but I am leery of this method. I have a friend who forgot his Brooks out in the rain and it softened it so much it ruined it.
@@BradinManheim thank you so much!
I have a Brooks Swallow Titanium with Brooks Ergo grips on one of my vintage XC bikes. Even being titanium it weighs twice as much as a race saddle. That said it looks beautiful and is becoming comfortable. I wish I could say the same about the grips. If I wasn't so vain I would have had the removed. They're awful and give me aches and pains. Sadly they also cost multiples of the good quality albeit less fancy looking grips that I removed. Grrr!
I'm a heavy rider looking to break my "overstuffed padded Selle Royal spring-loaded saddle" habit. I'm constantly moving forward and backward trying to reduce the "bum burn" every tenth of a mile. I get the feeling this one's worth trying long term. My only worry is that I will break the rails due to metal fatigue (ask me how I know this can be a problem, lol)!
Did you lose the weight?
@@LookingGlass69 No, he didn’t. He’s fatter than ever.
I know what you mean. That iron frame supporying the saddle leather really did have just the right amount of torsion to soak up the average minor bump in the asphalt. It was like a caddilac for the rear end. That and prperly tensioned spokes and you didnt need this plastowhammy didgery doo for soaking up bumps in the way. Next thing you know well all be riding saw horses.
Getting wet doesn't damage them. Just let it dry out. You can use walking boot conditioner, called Dubbin' in the UK. Pile it on both on the top and underside. Your bike will die before this will. It is in fact winter proof. Beeswax if the weather is a bit tough.
I use Sno-Seal (a Beeswax Product) to make the leather literally waterproof on my Brooks saddles for over 20 years besides other leather boots + goods for all weather outdoor use even longer. I actually don't really like Proofide because it's a strange blend of fat + wax, the tanning process tries very hard to remove all fat why putting fat back, Dubbin is also a blend of fat/oil + wax. I use a hair dryer so the Sno-Seal soaked into the leather from the underside around the rivets the edges several times and the top and polish the top after. It doesn't make the leather softer the only thing what should soften the leather is your butt and riding the thing.
My first ever B17 Standard is coming today! Very excited.... :) But yeah.. not cheap..... $200 CDN. ouch.
Just bought one of these yesterday, mine is black. BTW, there is an original Brooks raincover for this saddle...
I'm seriously considering getting this saddle, mostly based on looks plus the fact that I've purchased probably 10 saddles in the last 8yrs and have yet to find one that is comfortable. I'm not a serious road cyclist and maybe only ride 3 miles a day so I'm kind of torn on whether I should buy one. If I do then I'd definitely spay it with a leather Waterproofer. I'm assuming the same stuff I use on my leather boots would work fine for waterproofing a leather saddle.
My wife complained about every saddle she had until she got the Brooks ladies. My B17 is also comfortable, with previous saddles it took a few uncomfortable rides when I get back to cycling after the snow season but not with the Brooks.
I recommend you get the "aged" version I think they call it which is chemically softened to reduce the break in period. Best to get a can of the Brooks Proofide to treat it, a little sachet comes with the saddle but you will need more. I would also buy a saddle cover to protect it from the rain, or use a shower cap etc. rather than waterproofer. A big advantage of leather is that it breathes.
@@glennet9613 I bought a used B17-S on ebay a few days ago. It's in awesome condition and I only paid $71.00 for it. It arrives Monday, it will be interesting though since it is the shorter women's version and i'm 6'2 185lbs but I do have wider sit bones at around 170mm. Hopefully it works out, it seems there is a very big market for used Brooks saddles most likely because people didn't want to take the time to break them in. Also i think I might have gotten the "softened" version because the leather at the top of the saddle looks different then the leather on the sides of the saddle.
Best I’ve ever owned!
The Proofide actually goes on the bottom side.
I love my 'B17 Carved' with cut out middle and laces. It makes every other saddle I have owned seem like a painful joke, but I would never recommend one. How can you recommend a saddle? We all have different needs, tastes, riding styles and shady areas. Some people loath them. If you buy one it's a gamble. I am glad that I took the financial risk however. Wish that I'd done it years ago.
Belch! Brooks. Belch brooks belch brooks. The belch equals relief for the derriere. Belch brooks. They were and pobably still are the go to for bicycle saddle relief.
Been considering buying a honey B17 for my candy apple green Peugeot UO9 fixed gear conversion. Though I wonder if it'll be ideal for how I ride - mainly city riding (at most ~20 miles) but I like to do short sprints from time to time.
Join the club brother! You won't regret it.
Just put mine on today and surprised how comfortable it was straightaway. Can’t wait for it to break in.
I have a B17 with well over a 100 miles that I proofide regularly and it hasn't broken in or feel more comfortable than other seats. I have a friend with even more miles on his with the same issue. What are we doing wrong?
And the flyer is more confortable for long distance?
Can't find an email address to contact you otherwise, but here's a saddle related question: I've been working to get my SF-B1805 set up better and my wtb saddle is just not cutting it. Sit bone measurement is 139.7mm, (female rider here.) Was wondering if you or especially your partner have any recommendations for saddles? I tend to sit super duper far back on every saddle I've ever had. I'll be alternating between road stance and maybe thirty percent semi upright on stretch/weight sections. I'm leaning toward something by fizik or selle italia but I think it's because I'm charmed by the cutouts and the geometry as opposed to the more curvy looking creations out there. Also I have no interest in squishy gel which I imagine you can understand. Thanks for all of your videos about the sf1850, it really helped me make the right decision as I was in the market for something with clout and adjustability and silence. Wish I could rotate the handlebars as with an outdoor setup but I've not seen any exercise models that went that far with features. I'm sure there's someone out there who could correct me on that. Now just trying to figure out seat remedy. Thanks in advance for anyone else's input too.
Thanks for your detailed comment, happy to hear you’ve found the right bike for you! As far as saddles, I don’t think I can be much help here, it’s just such an individual preference kinda thing. I’m still rolling with my same brooks saddle 😜
I actually like the water spots on yours lol
it's expensive. I have 2. They "break-in" fairly quickly. Like any leather work of quality - you have to look after the leather, just like a $120 pair of shoes. Upside: 10 years later (or more) the saddle's still providing brilliant riding. You can buy a good squeezy, gell-filled saddle, $40. 2 years later it's got a hole in it and/or the material has hardened off - and - it was missing any style from the first day you bought it to the day your sell it in a garage sale for 5 bucks.
excellent comment! i totally agree, i wasted so much money buying padded seats and other saddles that were all eventually worth nothing. i think the thing i like best about this saddle is the beautiful look of it with the genuine leather, and obviously it feels nice to ride too, and no need for special cycling shorts!
already bought one😍
Yep, no need to wear a padded saddle on this one. It will make you a little bit slower than a smaller saddle ( like the c15 )
I got one and I love it
beautiful review. thanks mate
Thank you!
I like this saddle very much but is very costly,even more than the cost of bicycle.
Only use proofide on a brooks. They are designed to accept proofide nothing else. Dont even think of neatsfoot, it will soften it too much and rip right off the rivets and frame. New brooks dont let a soul other than yourself ride it. If it seems hard use the proofide. Use a showercap in wet weather. If you have a neglected dryed out brooks saddle dont put oil on it. Only proofide. You might just take it to a saddle maker and have new leather riveted on. But ive never done this so its probably better to just buy a new brooks. Your bottom will love you for it!😅
What happens if it gets wet besides maybe a change aesthetically?
You need to proofhide the underside of the saddle as well as the top surface
I'm thinking about this saddle. Any thoughts on the ones with Springs?
I have a flyer with springs. Best saddle ever. Not light, but you get double shock dampening from leather and springs together. 👍
I’ve never ridden a more painful saddle than the Brooks B17.
strange enuff
Do you use padded bike shorts when riding? I'm wondering how that affects the break in fit
Nope, no padded shorts, I'm sure this would make the break in time much much longer as your sit bones would not be in contact
@@TailHappyTV Thanks!
I've been using padded shorts/underwear because it's still too hard without them. I've ridden about 100 miles and it still hurts without padded underwear.
Why adjust a brand new brooks sadlle ???? Adjust when the leather get steched out !! After 15 k a 20k !
Had mine 5 years, can't say rain has damaged it. Over 10 thousand miles.
very nice, i think i may have not had enough proofide on it maybe? has yours ever sat and got rained on?
@@TailHappyTV, I have five bikes, four have Brooks saddles, tried many until a buddy recommended them, never looked back.
Have a sprung b17 on mountain bike, oldest and so comfortable now, a green one on my old steel Raleigh Royale, colour much nicer now worn in, and I have put 2.5 k miles on my new b17 in six months, no friction like those gel saddles.
Now thinking about another for my roadie.
Great video btw, always food for thought.
What is that bar thing? It matches saddle color.
it's called bar tape, check my pinned comment at the top to see it on amazon
The Brooks seats "mold to your particular anatomy" is a myth. Yes I agree that it looks great, but I think the main reason they are so expensive is because the production cost in the US is high. Their overall quality does not add up to their price. I am disappointed with the one I have. I honestly think that the original Brompton seats are better.
I just ordered a B17 Special version because I can't ride my new Brompton with the original seat. I tried for two days and my rear end has been in severe pain. I sure hope the B17 I order works out better or I'll need to wear padded shorts ☹️
How did you manage to keep the rivets so shiny? Mine rusted in a year :-( No question about the comfort though. I bought it for the traditional value of it.
I'm not sure, I store my bike indoors. Maybe I just dont ride enough :D
@@TailHappyTV Which is exactly the case with me as well but to opposite effect ☺️☺️ I live in a very humid part of the world. That might explain my rust. I have accepted it as "adds character to the bike".
I think they changed the metal, some rivets on some ive seen have almost a coppery like finish & never seem to rust.
What about the C17?
Thank You!
It looks hard as hell
Thanks you 🙏
He said Brooks saddle 178 times :)
this guy sounds like he's about to laugh
What ever you do dont use olive oil on it. I believe it degenerates the leather. Also dont let any water touch it. Use the proofide according to directions. Invest in a shower cap to cover it in nasty weather and I would think you might not ever have to buy a saddle ever again. But thats only if you buy it new and lavish it with attention.
I recently bought a Brompton P Line Electric.
I’m 75 and I’d ridden the Brooks B17 saddle for decades when I was young. But in the last 20 years, maybe more, I’d chosen saddles on new bikes that eliminated the break-in period required of the Brooks.
But for the new Brompton, I went back to the Brooks……honey colour, hammered rivets and copper rails. Looked like a million on the P Line.
ENORMOUS MISTAKE. I think it hurt more with each outing. I began to dread heading out on the bike.
Finally I said……. ENOUGH!
I just sold it for a pittance of what I paid but I paid.
I know, I know. There will be a flood of harda-es out there ready to offer advice.
Please. Save it. I don’t need your ‘wisdom’.
At 75, I don’t have the luxury of time to break in a torturous saddle.
I’m now perched happily on a SERFAS saddle that was instantly welcoming to my aging parts.
The end. (…no pun intended)
It take 500 miles to break in a Brooks saddle, it takes 15 minutes to break in a Walmart saddle, are you a Brooks Hipster?
its still breaking in. I'm probably some % hipster lol, but not full :D
@@TailHappyTV, I guess im a little Hipsterish too, i own their grips, lol. But lets be honest, is the saddle getting broken in, or is your seat bone just getting used to it? They look great on the right bike, but i call BS on the break in.
@@kingchakazulu7762 I think you're right, I forgot to put the proofide on the bottom side of the leather too, it's getting more broken in now. I've been thinking about pranking my gf and putting the brooks saddle on her Peloton
It is great a video not for me cannot justify the weight just too heavy
I bought one from Amazon and after a while it needed to be adjusted, It would not adjust, the bolt just went around which ever way you turned it with no movement of the screw.
this is a KNOWN problem with them and has never been addressed.
I contacted Brooks as it was well within warranty and they did not want to know as It was bought through Amazon and not from them, they did offer to fix it though, for a price.
So good saddle, really shit customer service, Be warned, Heritage isn't everything.
Interesting, thanks for sharing! I've never had to adjust mine yet. Also, "Brooks England" is the "official" seller of this item, the link I provide is to buy through them and not some random third party seller. I definitely would not buy from a third party. Also it looks like they are offering a 12% discount right now, wish I got that!
@@TailHappyTV It's OK chap, My remark was for anybody who was thinking of buying a "Brooks" Saddle through Amazon as a warning about "Brooks" and their customer service or the lack thereof.
I don't think it would make any difference if you bought it direct, anyway that is a lame excuse by Brooks, there is plenty reputable bike shops out there selling Brooks saddles. If there is a manufacturing fault within warranty period they should address it. I just bought a Brooks Team Pro Special and it had a protruding brass rivet on the surface, should be hammered flush. Also the right side is shaped differently to the left, not as curved, more sharp edges to it. These sharp edges are digging into my right thigh on the back stroke. I think they fitted the frame underneath crooked but they should round the frame more also to get rid of this sharp meeting point between leather and frame (Saddle frame). I wouldn't buy another Brooks, I just bought a Gilles Berthoud Mente and hopefully it will be super comfortable, sadly this was the saddle I originally picked but I was swayed by all the hype around Brooks. I let you know what I think of the Gilles Berthoud Mente when I ride it if you are interested.
@@DEXTER941 Thanks mate, and good luck avec le new saddle
@@TailHappyTV No need to adjust. It will only destroy the saddle in the end, like what happened to a friend of mine with B17.
I use B17 titanium saddle on my hardtail and full suspension bikes. Swallow titanium saddle on my road bike, no need for padded shorts on 4 hours trip.
The best saddles out there, will never use anything else.
100 miles my ass
I think they look absolutely amazing, but not for someone who wears cycling specific bib shorts/bib pants (which have cushions). I want to put it on my new gravel build, but I like to wear my bibs lol.
자막이 이상하게 달렸네
Pub, and no english accent. Like England, Ireland, Scotland
I wish, women love an English accent