So, we’ve taken a first look at the Brooks B17 Standard Titanium saddle and have decided to follow the early stages of its life. The first of them, arguably, is to apply a liberal coating of the manufacturer’s Proofide leather treatment. This, however, can be done at any time and is not critical to ride comfort the first time the saddle gets taken for a spin

What is critical is the angle at which the saddle is set. The general rule with modern plastic-base bicycle saddles is to set them precisely level with the cycle on level ground. But then, they don’t change shape with use. A Brooks does and, having done so, will then need to be set at the angle that gives the rider the most comfortable seating position.

Prior to this, it will probably – depending on the rider – need to be set at a different angle. With a new Brooks set level, the surfaces on which the rider’s sit bones rest slope very slightly downwards. Add the fact that the surface of the new leather is fairly slippery, and the new owner may find themselves sliding forwards while riding.

If so, for the first few miles try tilting the nose up very slightly. This will not only prevent sliding forwards but will concentrate the pressure applied by the sit bones to the very part of the saddle upper that needs to alter shape to accommodate them comfortably.

Brooks B17 Titanium saddle £195.00

brooksengland.com

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