Yesterday I had a grand day out with a handful of leather nuts to the Brooks saddle factory in Birmingham, UK. We were split into 2 groups and had a tour on the factory floor. Where we could see, hear and smell the production of these beautiful leather saddles. The whole production is done in true industrial style, e.g big and noisy with oil and steam (ok just added that last bit for effect).
I do have a weak spot for old industrial craftsmanship, ok CNC, robots are great but each …

After a little clicking around on the Brooks website I think I figured out that they are a B66 and a Team Pro.

… behind, me.
Well after a lot if hmm and aahh’s we went and got some B17’s and yesterday they arrived.
I have read a lot about the miles of pain that we should endure before the bliss, so I cheated.
Various sites talked about bringing a mallet to it, proof hide, water etc.
I then soaked them for around 30-40min and then gave it a layer if some majic stuff I got. From my friends in Denmark. They work with leather everyday, some of you might have seen their handy work, the stuff …

… equal the amount of bikes you should have. Where “n” is the amount of bikes you have right now.
We just put our orders in for some bits and bobs for our new bikes.
Ortlieb panniers, racks, sleeping mats, tyres, brooks B17’s etc.
Just can’t wait until we get our Surly Long Haul Truckers, and we can go touring :)