The Brooks C17 Cambium Carved Saddle is a modern touring and adventure saddle designed for riders who demand comfort, durability, and weather resistance — with the added benefit of a central cut‑out for pressure relief.
It builds on the success of the standard C17 Cambium, but adds a carefully engineered “Carved” channel to reduce perineal pressure during long rides. This makes it a compelling choice for endurance cyclists, gravel riders, and commuters who value both comfort and resilience.
Design and Construction
The C17 Cambium Carved retains the vulcanised natural rubber top that defines the Cambium range, offering a flexible, hammock‑like ride feel without the break‑in period of traditional leather saddles.
Key specifications:
- Top Material: Vulcanised natural rubber with waterproof nylon cover
- Rails: Black steel for strength and affordability
- Dimensions: Length 283mm, Width 162mm, Height 52mm
- Weight: 446g
- Cut‑out: Central relief channel to reduce pressure on sensitive areas
- Back Plate: Updated with loops for attaching a saddle bag or accessories
The cut‑out is not just cosmetic — it’s designed to improve blood flow and reduce numbness on long rides, particularly for riders who spend extended time in a forward‑leaning position.
Comfort and Ride Feel
From the first ride, the C17 Carved delivers a firm yet forgiving feel. The rubber top flexes with your pedal stroke, absorbing road buzz and trail chatter without feeling overly soft.
The Carved channel makes a noticeable difference for riders prone to discomfort on traditional saddles. It allows for subtle flex in the centre of the saddle, further enhancing comfort over rough terrain or during long hours in the saddle.
In practice, the C17 Carved works well for:
- Endurance road cyclists seeking long‑distance comfort
- Gravel and adventure riders tackling mixed terrain
- Touring cyclists who ride for multiple days in all weather
- Commuters who want a comfortable, weatherproof saddle for daily use
Durability and Weather Resistance
The “All Weather” designation is well earned. The nylon cover is fully waterproof, and the rubber base is unaffected by rain, snow, or UV exposure.
Unlike leather saddles, the Cambium Carved won’t stretch, sag, or require tensioning. It’s equally at home in freezing rain or blazing sunshine, making it a true four‑season option.
The steel rails are robust and reliable, though heavier than titanium alternatives. For most riders, the trade‑off in weight is worth the added durability and lower cost.
Break‑In and Maintenance
One of the biggest advantages over traditional Brooks leather saddles is the lack of a break‑in period. The C17 Carved is comfortable from day one, with no need to soften the material over time.
Maintenance is minimal:
- Wipe clean after wet or muddy rides
- Check rail bolts periodically
- No leather care products or tension adjustments required
This makes it ideal for riders who want a fit‑and‑forget saddle.
Fit and Sizing
The C17 Carved’s 162mm width suits a broad range of riders. Those with narrower sit bones might prefer the C15 Carved, while those needing more width can look at the C19 Carved.
The relief channel is particularly beneficial for riders who experience numbness or discomfort on standard saddles, especially during long‑distance or high‑intensity rides.
Performance Across Disciplines
Commuting
The weatherproof build means you can ride in any conditions without worrying about damage. The comfort level is high enough for daily rides without padded shorts.
Gravel and Adventure Riding
The rubber top’s natural flex smooths out vibrations from gravel, dirt, and rough roads. The cut‑out adds extra comfort for long days off‑road.
Touring and Bikepacking
The saddle loops allow for easy attachment of a small saddle bag, and the all‑day comfort is ideal for multi‑day trips. Weather resistance is a major plus for unpredictable conditions.
Road Cycling
While heavier than some performance saddles, the C17 Carved’s comfort and pressure relief make it a strong choice for endurance events and long training rides.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Immediate comfort with no break‑in period
- Central cut‑out for pressure relief
- Fully weatherproof and low maintenance
- Durable construction with long lifespan
- Versatile across multiple cycling disciplines
Cons:
- Heavier than carbon or titanium‑railed saddles
- Higher price than many synthetic saddles
- Firm feel may not suit riders who prefer plush padding
Price and Value
The Brooks C17 Cambium Carved All Weather typically retails around £109–£130 in the UK, with similar pricing in other markets. While it’s not the cheapest option, its longevity, comfort, and weather resistance make it a worthwhile investment for serious riders.
Real‑World User Feedback
Riders who have used the C17 Carved for thousands of kilometres often highlight its consistent comfort and pressure relief. Many note that it performs equally well in hot, dry climates and cold, wet conditions.
Some riders mention that the firmness takes a few rides to get used to, but the cut‑out design significantly reduces numbness compared to flat‑top saddles.
Who Should Buy the Brooks C17 Cambium Carved?
The C17 Carved is ideal for:
- Riders who want all‑weather comfort with added pressure relief
- Cyclists who ride in varied conditions and need a low‑maintenance saddle
- Endurance and adventure riders who value durability and gear attachment points
- Commuters seeking a long‑term comfort upgrade
It may not be the best choice for weight‑focused racers or those who prefer heavily padded saddles.
Final Verdict
The Brooks C17 Cambium Carved All Weather is a versatile, durable, and comfort‑focused saddle that excels in all conditions. The addition of the central cut‑out makes it especially appealing for riders who experience pressure‑related discomfort on long rides.
If you value pressure relief, minimal maintenance, and all‑weather reliability, the C17 Carved is a top contender. While it’s not the lightest or cheapest saddle, its performance and lifespan make it a smart investment for a wide range of cyclists.
