Choosing the right bicycle saddle can significantly impact your riding comfort and enjoyment. This comparison dives deep into two renowned leather saddles: the Brooks B17 and the Berthoud Aspen. Both are celebrated for their quality and durability, but cater to different preferences and riding styles. This detailed analysis will examine key differences in weight, dimensions, leather thickness, and construction, allowing you to make an informed decision based on your individual needs. We'll explore the nuances of their shapes, comfort levels, and serviceability, providing a comprehensive overview to help you determine which saddle reigns supreme in this leather showdown.This article will equip you with the knowledge to compare these two premium saddles effectively. We'll dissect features like saddle rail length, leather thickness, bag loop placement, and the impact of differing saddle shapes and contours on rider comfort. Beyond the immediate feel, we'll explore the long-term implications of construction materials and serviceability. Ultimately, this detailed side-by-side comparison will help you decide whether the classic appeal of the Brooks B17 or the innovative design of the Berthoud Aspen better suits your riding style and comfort requirements.
Pros And Cons
- Softer, more supple leather out of the box
- Generally pliable, doesn't require extensive break-in
- Wider, providing more surface area distribution
- Rivets are non-serviceable
- Can cause chafing in inner thigh due to flaring
- Shape may not be comfortable for everyone; has a pronounced ridge that can be uncomfortable for some riders
- Thicker leather (5.6mm vs Brooks' 4.3mm)
- Serviceable rivets (allowing for potential leather/color changes)
- Flatter shape may be more comfortable for some riders
- Works better with more aggressive riding positions
- Stiffer leather out of the box
- Narrower than the Brooks B17
- Bag loops are spaced closer together and slightly harder to use
Read more: The 5 Best Bike Saddles for Triathlons
Weight and Dimensions: A Tale of the Tape
The Brooks B17, a classic among cyclists, tips the scales at 520 grams. Its competitor, the Berthoud Aspen, weighs in slightly lighter at 480 grams. While not a drastic difference, the weight discrepancy is noticeable, especially for weight-conscious riders.
Moving on to dimensions, the Brooks B17 boasts a rail length of 70 millimeters, while the Berthoud Aspen measures 75 millimeters. This extra length on the Berthoud could prove beneficial for riders who need to position their saddle further back.
Lastly, leather thickness plays a role in comfort and durability. The Brooks B17 leather measures 4.3 millimeters, while the Berthoud Aspen offers a thicker 5.6 millimeters. This thicker leather on the Berthoud suggests potentially greater longevity and cushioning.
Bag Loops and Saddle Shape: Design Differences
Both saddles feature bag loops for attaching panniers or other accessories. However, the Brooks B17's loops are spaced further apart (85 millimeters) with larger holes, making them marginally easier to use. The Berthoud Aspen's loops are closer together (75 millimeters) and slightly more challenging to use due to their angled positioning.
The saddle shape is another key differentiator. Viewed from above, the Brooks B17 is significantly wider, especially at the rear, offering potentially more support. The Berthoud Aspen has a sleeker, narrower profile, which could be more suitable for riders sensitive to inner thigh chafing.
Beyond the overall width, the saddles differ in their contours. The Brooks B17 features noticeable depressions and a slight central ridge. In contrast, the Berthoud Aspen possesses a flatter, more concave shape. This difference is significant for rider comfort, as it directly affects sit bone contact and pressure distribution.
Rivets and Materials: Construction and Serviceability
The Brooks B17 utilizes fixed rivets, making it less serviceable compared to the Berthoud Aspen. The Berthoud Aspen's use of small bolts for attaching the leather allows for easier servicing. Users can potentially replace the top leather with different colors or swap between open and closed designs.
Beyond the rivets, the saddles differ in their materials. The Brooks B17 utilizes a metal frame integrated with the rails, while the Berthoud Aspen's frame is composed of a hard composite plastic. This plastic frame can be replaced if damaged, adding to its overall serviceability.
While these construction differences do not necessarily impact initial comfort, the serviceability aspect adds value for those seeking long-term adaptability and maintainability of their saddle.
Comfort and Riding Style: Subjective Experiences
Comfort is subjective, depending on individual preferences and body shape. The Brooks B17, out of the box, is softer and more pliable. However, its shape, with its depressions and central ridge, may not suit all riders.
The Berthoud Aspen, with its thicker, stiffer leather and flatter shape, provides a different feel. This might be more comfortable for riders who prefer a flatter saddle without a pronounced central ridge. The overall feel is stiffer initially but may soften with more break-in time.
Riding posture also influences comfort. The Brooks B17 might be better suited for upright riding styles, while the Berthoud Aspen feels more comfortable in slightly more aggressive positions. Ultimately, the optimal saddle choice depends greatly on rider preference and riding style.
Conclusion: Which Saddle Reigns Supreme?
The Brooks B17 and Berthoud Aspen offer distinct advantages. The Brooks B17's softer leather and classic design appeal to many riders. However, its shape may not be universally comfortable.
The Berthoud Aspen, with its thicker leather, flatter profile, and superior serviceability, is a strong contender. Its higher price point must be considered, but the additional features might be worth the investment for some riders.
Ultimately, the best saddle depends on personal preferences, riding style, and body shape. Both saddles are high-quality options, and choosing between them boils down to individual comfort and priorities.