Test: Brooks has solved a well-known problem with a new version of its successful model: The new Brooks Cambium All Weather stays dry and should be significantly more resistant to aging. Velomotion tried it out.
When Brooks presented the new Cambium model series around five years ago, there was great enthusiasm about this unique saddle made of new materials, which took up the look of the classic leather seat. The level of comfort was right, and the look of the Cambium was a perfect match for touring, sports and everyday bikes with a classic touch - this is ensured by versions of different widths, models with and without "cutout" as well as light sports versions.
However, the classic cambium is not without disadvantages. The vulcanized cotton layer on the saddle surface ages; A black cambium quickly turns greyish on bicycles that are permanently parked outside – so the elegant saddle should not be exposed to the weather without a protective cover or plastic bag. The material also absorbs water - not much, but enough to be uncomfortable on cold days. There is also a certain amount of abrasion where the legs touch the saddle when pedaling.
Now Brooks has taken on this problem and further developed the Cambium. The result is called Brooks Cambium All Weather and will be added to the previous collection - in three widths, each with and without cut-out, as well as in a particularly beautiful version with copper rivets.
What is different about the new model? The biggest difference lies in the mix of materials. A rubber mat several millimeters thick is still used, but this is now covered by a nylon fabric that replaces the cotton layer and is said to be water and abrasion resistant. The difference can be seen and felt: the matt look of the first cambium has given way to a slight shimmer; the All Weather feels smoother. In contrast to a well-worn classic cambium, its saddlecloth is a little softer and more flexible.
The frame has also been changed: where there used to be aluminum, there are now black plastic components; the Brooks badge that was once riveted on has given way to a lacquered embossing. The metal rivets or screws that connect the saddlecloth to the frame are now black anodized. Overall, the new model is more reserved, but no less valuable; In this context, the significant price reduction should also be mentioned: At 110 euros, the Brooks Cambium All Weather is 30 to 40 euros below the comparable standard models.
It hasn't lost any of its comfort: this is still one of the most comfortable, if not the most comfortable, bicycle saddle on the market. As with the leather saddle, the secret lies in the hammock-like attachment of the saddlecloth, which can cushion shocks and vibrations. At the same time, the Cambium is rather firm - unlike some gel saddles, which are pushed in further and further by body weight and eventually become uncomfortable, it does not change its properties during the tour. A well-known disadvantage of leather saddles is the hard saddle nose. Where the ceiling is screwed to the frame at the front, there is zero elasticity; this is something to consider when adjusting the saddle.
Anyone who can handle a leather saddle or prefers rather tight plastic models should love the Cambium right away; Anyone who has ridden through wide touring chairs for years could become a follower of a completely new seating philosophy at Brooks.
Like the standard models, Brooks offers the Cambium All Weather in three widths: C15 stands for 140 mm, C17 for 162 mm and C19 for 184 mm. We got along just fine with the medium variant – the saddle is wide enough at the back to offer a full contact surface; the nose, on the other hand, is pleasantly narrow and does not rub against the thighs, even when the legs are narrow.
Several weeks of outdoor use left no visible marks on the test saddle, although we refused the saddle a protective plastic bag - after all, rainwater can easily be wiped off. When it was very cold, a slight creaking could be heard, probably caused by the friction of the frame in its plastic mounts. Compared to the conventional Cambium, the slightly higher weight of the All Weather is noticeable; instead of 420 grams, it weighs 470 grams, which of course has no meaning in practice. Since plastic is used instead of aluminum, it is still surprising.
Is it worth buying this saddle? Definitely, because it combines a high level of comfort and a very nice look with weather resistance that makes it fully suitable for everyday use. The Brooks Cambium All Weather cuts a fine figure on a classic everyday or touring bike; it's just not (yet?) available in different colors.
Anyone who fears that a good piece of their everyday bike will be stolen can protect themselves or their saddle as follows: If the seat height and saddle angle are optimally adjusted, you smear construction glue or wood glue into the Allen screws (turn the bike upside down if necessary). place). If necessary, the resulting plug can be removed without leaving any residue using a pointed tool; however, it should deter a parts thief looking for quick prey.
