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 On: 2008-03-24
The Classic Brooks B17 has a lot going for it. Mine is a Honey colored classic. It took me about 500 miles to break it in. I sped the process up with inundating in a substance I will not describe. I risked ruining the saddle, but the treatment seemed to set it in nicely. Be careful with advice to speed the break-in. You can ruin it. Im a 165# male, FWIW.
The saddle for me, is very comfortable on the sit bones once it settles in. However, I recently changed my riding position, lowering my handlebar to a more aggressive stance, and I can no longer use it. I was recently fitted by a professional to address other issues I was having on my bike.
Especially on the drops the Brooks caused problems. One one-hour ride and my taint, as they say, was screaming. Its a day after my ride and I still feel something a urologist could explain better than I. Ive also had urological issues towards the ends of very long rides (60 miles and up) when your form and technique start to degrade.
I gave the saddle 4 stars since it is a classic and is still the last word for long distance riders whose handlebars are pretty much level with the top of the saddle, and who rarely need to use the drop position on their bike.
That said, using heavily padded shorts and bibs may exacerbate the soft tissue problems while improving sit-bone comfort.
Where is my saddle now? Its on my hybrid commuter where I "SIT" on the Brooks in a more upright position. If I had a Trek 520 or LHT, it would still be on my road bike.
Its not for everyone, but if it is for you, you will be one of the many many true believers. Just watch out for the taint!
Saddle selection is famously anecdotal. But the Brooks B-17 is certainly worth your time if youre a serious tourer. The saddle holds its value very well, and even if you dont like it after-all, I doubt youd sell it. Im not selling it!
Happy trails.
 On: 2008-02-29
I have a variation on the classic B-17. Mine has springs, since Im over-the-hill and need the extra cushioning for my tushe. Brooks, hands down, makes the best saddles, and always has. This sort of quality is very had to find these days. Not as "svelte" as the racing saddles that are out there, but very comfortable.
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