Since starting a cycling blog I’ve become more interested in the perspective of non-racing cyclists ( – people who primarily cycle because it is a convenient way to get from A to B). The constant recurring theme is the preference for a comfortable saddle. Quite a few people have said their main reason for not cycling is that cycle saddles are too uncomfortable. To a seasoned hill climber this was quite a revelation (my idea of a good saddle is one that weighs less than 90g – and if its as uncomfortable as sitting on an iron – well that’s just part of the experience.)
In looking for the most comfortable saddle, the traditional Brooks saddle usually comes very highly recommended by those who are use it. A friend spent £300 on a hybrid bike. He thought nothing of spending another £70 on a Brooks saddle. He said that it is the saddle that make the bike enjoyable to ride. He’s not interested in carbon forks, 20 gears or flash componentary – just get a comfortable saddle and that’s all you need to enjoy cycling. It weighs a whopping 520 grams. But, if you are buying a Brooks saddle, you aren’t doing it to save weight. If you do want to save a bit of weight, there is a Titianium version which saves 100g; for women the Team Finesse Titanium weighs only 370 grams.
When Robert Penn travelled the world seeking the ‘dream bike’ it was pleasing that at least one component could be bought in England. – The Brooks Saddle. In an age of mass produced carbon fibre and aluminium processing, it was amazing to find a good quality accessory is still handmade, pretty much the way it was made back in 1866.
Good Features of Brooks
- Long Lasting. You will frequently hear about saddles in use for 40 years plus (link)
- Look Stylish. If you want the ‘classic’ look you can’t go wrong with a Brooks leather saddle.
- Grow more comfortable with riding as it adjusts to the contours of your body.
- Wide range of different saddles. Most users will be happy with the standard B17 classic, but there are also a wide range of different versions from MTB to touring and racing.
Related
- Brooks Saddles at Wiggle
- Dealing with saddle sore
I bought a hybrid bike and despite being very concious of how much weight I put in my panniers I have never considered getting rid of what must be a very weighty seat. I quite happily gloat when my friends are riding on razor seats and suffering for it. Comfy seat every day for me.
Oh and what a great comment by Emily!
Hiya
I really like brooks saddles, but sadly most thirteen year olds can’t afford one (me been one of them) but what I love about them is that there made in THIS country and I just think thats great