Back to a Brooks saddle - Part 1

There comes a time in every cyclist’s life when they look at their saddle and think, ‘You know what? This one makes my arse hurt!!’

For me, that moment arrived after a brief but significant departure from Brooks saddles on my Brompton bicycles - a decision that, in hindsight, can only be described as optimistic. It was after the recent nocturnal Leigh-on-Sea ride that I saw the light. 

You see, I was seduced by the idea of a minimalist, lightweight saddle. You know the type: sleek and apparently designed by someone who has only ever encountered sitting as a theoretical concept. The promise was irresistible - shave off some grams and look faster. What could possibly go wrong? As it turns out, quite a lot, particularly everything below the waist. 

Lightweight saddles are undeniably impressive at saving weight. Unfortunately, they are equally impressive at redistributing your body weight into very precise and deeply uncomfortable locations. After a few rides, I began to suspect that comfort might not, in fact, be a sign of weakness but rather a fundamental requirement of sitting down. So, slightly humbled and noticeably sore, I have returned to Brooks. 

I opted for the C17 Carved Cadmium. This came with one of my Brompton bikes a few years ago when the stock Brompton saddle was not available for some reason. It is not the lightest saddle in the world, and no, it won’t impress the gram-counting purists, however it does something far more radical in that it is comfortable!

The carved cut-out is nothing short of a revelation. The rubber construction manages that rare balance of being both forgiving and supportive. Of course, we must address the elephant in the room. Well, I suppose I already have. Yes, the C17 is heavier than the Superlight Brompton saddle it replaces. The point is, I no longer care! In reality, those extra grams buy something far more valuable: not having to stand up every few minutes to let the blood circulate. 

I completed the Cobble Monster on this saddle and it performed really well. If anything was going to test it out, it was this ride. 

So here I am, back on a Brooks saddle: older, wiser, and significantly more comfortable. The whole experiment has taught me a few important lessons. Light does not always mean right. Comfort is not optional and sometimes, the classic choice is the classic choice for a reason. 

I am happily seated on a Brooks C17 Carved Cadmium, riding along without fear, without pain, and without the faintest concern about a few extra grams. 

You might be wondering why this is 'Part 1.' Well there is a Part 2 that involves the purchase of a new Brooks saddle and lessons learnt from the distant past! Keep reading for that one whenever it appears on this blog!

Until next time, stay safe out there people!