Can this Brooks Saddle be salvaged?

[HerrOtto]

Hello, not sure if I am posting in the right area but, today I picked up this old Brooks saddle and was wondering if it can be salvaged? The leather is hard and misshaped. The leather is not torn or cracked. In addition, would you happen to know what model it is? Thank you

 

[SirMike1983]

It looks like it has a split at each nose rivet(?). At least the picture looks like it does.

They can be re-shaped, but there is always some risk involved. You would de-tension the saddle slowly, wet the saddle and shape. Pictures show it better:

Brooks Saddles- reshaping with water - Bike Forums

Classic & Vintage - Brooks Saddles- reshaping with water - Brooks saddles and water usually shouldn't be seen together, it is necessary for specific circumstances. This is where a saddle needs to be reshaped, water is required. Brooks saddles are made with vegetable tanned leather for stiffness...

www.bikeforums.net

 

[HerrOtto]

Thanks for the information. Unfortunately, while taking the tension off the adjuster, the leather cracked.

 

[Andrew Gorman]

When they are that far gone, it's time for a new skin. Best introduction to the process I've found is here:

New cover for an old saddle | LFGSS

www.lfgss.com

 

[SirMike1983]

Yeah, too far gone. I've lost a couple B72s that way over the years - splits after trying to set up, or splits after the first ride or two. It's a natural material and once it dries out that badly, it's an uphill battle. But you try because every so often you get lucky.