How does a Brooks saddle hold up off road? If not, what else

[calvjones]

Hi All

Currently building up a Scapin hardtail for use XC and at South Wale trail centres.

I'm a long time Brooks Swift fan on my road bikes, but am a bit worried about subjecting one of these to off-road gunk.

Anyone have any views, and if it's inappropriate, what else might look nice and be in keeping with a decade old Italian frame?

Cheers,

Cal

 

[drystonepaul]

It should be fine as long as you clean it regularly and apply plenty of 'Proofide' to the top and the underside of the saddle.
I know a few people who regularly ride with them off road. Personally I find then a bit wide for my off road riding. The one on my touring bike is very comfortable though.

Anyway, the main problem off-road is the abrasive effect of a muddy pair of shorts. Well worth using a rear mud guard to offer protection when it's wet.

 

[hydorah]

Go fot it!

Brooks saddles are cool off road!

I use 'em too

But they are about twice as heavy as a Flite Titanium

What I've done is cover the underside of the saddle with duct tape so gunk can be hosed off with out saturating the leather, and occasionally WD40ing the tin work under there

But latterly I've not bothered I've found that an occasional off road foray can be cleaned off the underside easy enough

I've had the same Brooks B17 since 1989

 

[hydorah]

that would be my suggested alternative A Selle Italia Flite Titanium

Nice saddle about 230g, leather cover, recently reissued and available brand new for £60 - £70

 

[calvjones]

Cheers guys - the Flite looks a good buy. Mmm black or white? Frame is black but just scored some VERY white Magura forks of eBay...

 

[wordfool]

I've never been a great fan of Brooks.... in fact my arse must be strangely shaped because all the "comfy" saddles people recommend are far from comfy for me. Shows just how personal saddle shapes can be.

 

[calvjones]

I've never been a great fan of Brooks.... in fact my arse must be strangely shaped because all the "comfy" saddles people recommend are far from comfy for me. Shows just how personal saddle shapes can be.

You have to give them time to settle in. About a decade is enough.