This review dives into the Brooks England Cambium C17 All-Weather saddle, comparing it to the renowned Brooks Swift Titanium. We explore its comfort, durability, and weather resistance, key features often sought after by cyclists. The Cambium C17 boasts a unique construction of natural rubber and a durable nylon top, promising a significant upgrade in all-weather performance compared to its leather counterparts. This detailed assessment will examine the installation process, riding experience over varying distances, and ultimately determine whether this saddle lives up to its claims and justifies its price point.This comprehensive review analyzes the Cambium C17’s performance against the reviewer’s previous saddle, highlighting the differences in riding style and comfort levels. We'll delve into the specifics of its all-weather capabilities, evaluating the effectiveness of the synthetic nylon coating in protecting against the elements. Expect a thorough examination of the saddle’s comfort, both on shorter test rides and during longer cycling excursions, ultimately offering a well-rounded perspective for cyclists considering purchasing the Brooks England Cambium C17 All-Weather saddle.
Pros And Cons
- Water resistant/repellent
- Colorfast (doesn't fade)
- Immediate comfort (no break-in period)
- Comfortable for long distances
- 10-year warranty
- Wider than Say 15, suitable for various riding styles
- Durability needs further testing
Read more: The 5 Best Bike Saddles for Triathlons
Unboxing and First Impressions
The Brooks England Cambium C17 All-Weather saddle arrived, a welcome alternative to my existing all-leather saddle. The packaging was straightforward, showcasing the saddle's key features: natural rubber construction, nylon top, and all-weather design. Initial inspection revealed a flexible, yet sturdy saddle with a slightly textured surface.
The saddle's rubber composition felt surprisingly comfortable to the touch. The nylon top layer added a layer of tactile refinement, promising both durability and protection against the elements. The overall aesthetic was understated, yet elegant, perfectly complementing the modern design of most bicycles.
Comparing the new Cambium C17 to my existing Brooks Swift Titanium saddle, the difference in construction materials and intended riding style was immediately apparent. The Swift is noticeably more rigid and race-oriented, while the Cambium C17 appears to favor comfort and all-day riding.
Comparison with Brooks Swift Titanium Saddle
My Brooks Swift Titanium saddle, a long-time companion, has served me well over two years, even enduring a century ride without significant discomfort. However, its all-leather construction made it vulnerable to the elements, prompting the search for a more weather-resistant option.
The Cambium C17 addresses this concern with its all-weather design. The synthetic nylon coating is a significant improvement over the cotton covering of previous Cambium models, offering superior water resistance and colorfastness.
While both saddles offer a unique riding experience, the Swift's rigid titanium frame lends itself better to aggressive riding, while the Cambium C17’s wider profile provides increased comfort for longer rides and less aggressive riding styles.
Installation and Riding Experience
Installing the Cambium C17 was a straightforward process. The saddle's mounting points were clearly defined, facilitating a smooth and secure installation onto my bike. The initial ride provided a noticeably different sensation compared to the Swift.
The Cambium C17’s softer feel and wider profile reduced pressure points significantly. This was particularly noticeable during a short test ride of a couple of miles where my sit bones rested comfortably on the saddle without any discomfort. Proper saddle angle adjustment is key to maximizing comfort.
After a longer ride, the Cambium C17 continued to provide impressive comfort. Unlike my Swift saddle which felt stiff even after 2,000 miles of use, the Cambium felt broken-in straight out of the box. The additional width contributes to the increased comfort levels.
Conclusion and Verdict
The Brooks England Cambium C17 All-Weather saddle offers a compelling combination of comfort, durability, and weather resistance. Its natural rubber construction, nylon top, and wider profile make it a comfortable option for long rides and less aggressive riding styles. The improved synthetic covering provides greater weather protection compared to previous models. It is significantly more comfortable out of the box than my Brooks Swift Titanium saddle.
While the Swift excels in its lightweight and race-oriented design, the Cambium C17 prioritizes comfort and all-day riding. The price point around $100 is competitive considering the quality and 10-year warranty. I was pleased with this saddle, and have happily replaced my Swift Titanium saddle with this model. For those seeking a comfortable, durable, and weather-resistant saddle, the Cambium C17 is an excellent choice.
Overall, the Brooks England Cambium C17 All-Weather saddle earns a strong recommendation. Its superior comfort, especially for long distances, and enhanced weather resistance make it a significant upgrade over its predecessor and a noteworthy alternative to the Swift Titanium, especially for riders who prioritize comfort over lightweight performance.