I love the look and *philosophy* of Brooks saddles, and so tried a Brooks Ti rail Swift some time ago. After about 700 miles I was not satisfied with the way it was breaking-in, and it just wasn't very comfortable on long rides. Seems like part of the reason was that it had a bit of an unusual shape, sorta a big 'whaleback' hump down the center of the saddle, lengthwise.
I sadly had to give up and sell the saddle. Lately I have been thinking about Brooks again, and seem to notice comments from people that the Brooks Swift, in particular, does not work for a lot of people. Does anyone else find this to be the case and, if so, do other models--such as the B17, Professional, or Colt--have a significantly different profile that they may work? I know that's a nebulous, highly situational question, so we'll agree ahead of time that we're talking in very general terms here.
In looking 'up close' at the various models, my eye is somewhat drawn to the Colt, particularly. Does anyone have experience with this saddle, or the others, and have opinions they'd like to share? Thanks.
Michael Doleman, Sacramento, CA
Raoul Delmare writes:
> As long as we are talking about Brooks Saddles , the following is a shameless commercial . I have no connection with the businesses , or the individuals named below , except that I am a VERY satisfied customer ( of each of them ) .
>
> You can certainly buy Genuine Brooks Leather Saddles , from many different sources .
> One of the first I think of is :
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> http://www.rivendellbicycles.com
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>
> But for detailed explanations of the entire range of Brooks saddles , there are two wonderful places to look ( in alphabetical order ) , Harris Cyclery & Wallingford Bicycle Parts .
>
>
> http://www.sheldonbrown.com/
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> http://www.wallbike.com
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>
> ( these folks are not only easy to work with , and incredibly knowledgeable , but also downright fun ! )
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> ( many , many photographs & much , much history & even photos from the present day factory ! )
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> ( thanks friends ! )
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> ( and now I need to go buy some reprints of vintage Brooks Saddle catalogs from Mr. Chuck Schmidt , of http://www.velo-retro.com with full color covers !! !! )
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> Cheers ,
> Raoul Delmare
> Marysville Kansas