Brooks 1907 Catalog — Cycle Saddles and other Cycle and Motor Specialities

Brooks Cycle Saddles and other Cycle and Motor Specialities for 1907, from J. B. Brooks & Co. Ld. of Birmingham. Sixty-four printed pages between black printed card covers, with the year on the cover and again on the title page. Printed by Cond Bros., Birmingham.

This is the most useful single book in the Brooks run held by the Ebykr archive, for four reasons.

The first is the rubber buffer. On printed page 17 the B 28 is headed “New Patent Road Saddle” and described in four sentences, one of which reads: “At the rear, our patent system of rubber buffers is fitted.” Until this book was read, the earliest attestation of a rubber buffer shock absorber on a Brooks bicycle saddle was the 1916 catalog, which itself had moved the feature back seven years from 1923. The 1907 book moves it back another nine, and it does more than that. The same paragraph opens “This pattern has been greatly improved for 1907”, so the B 28 is not new in 1907 and Brooks is describing a change made to an existing model. The rubber buffer therefore arrives on a bicycle saddle no later than 1907, and the B 28 itself is older again.

The second is the index on printed page 3, which no other Brooks book in this collection matches for usefulness. It is a full concordance: every subject and every model number in the book, each with its page. It lists thirty-one gentlemen’s cycle saddles and seventeen ladies’ models by number, and it is the fastest way into any question about what Brooks made in 1907. It also settles a question the catalog pages alone would leave open, because it names anti-vibratory saddles, anti-vibratory seats, anti-vibratory motor cycle seats and anti-vibratory spring tri-car seats as four separate headings.

The third is the military range on printed page 43, headed “Patent Military Saddles” and subtitled “As adopted by His Majesty’s War Office.” There are two models and only two, the No. 1 and the No. 2. There is no No. 3. Both are noted as “thoroughly well and strongly made, to stand military work” with “All metal parts gun-browned.”

The fourth is the guarantee on printed page 7, which is the sentence post 1111 uses as its epigraph. What Brooks actually printed is: “Whilst giving no so-called guarantee, we emphasise the fact that Brooks Saddles are made throughout of the best materials to be obtained, which, combined with experience and careful workmanship, and constant testing, is the best and safest guarantee that can be given.”

Three smaller things are worth having. The title page gives the telephone as “Nos. 1213 & 5174. Use either number”, which extends the telephone as a dating tool backward: 1213 alone in 1903, 1213 and 5174 in 1907, Central 3670 from 1916 to 1935, CENtral 3671 by 1937. It gives ESTABLISHED 1866, the company’s own founding date, in the same year as the 1903 and 1913 title pages. And it carries a WARNING against saddles of other makes being passed off as Brooks, with the counter-claim that “Every Saddle made by us bears our Name” on both flaps and on the rear nameplate.

This copy carries period handwritten annotations in ink, on the B 24/1 illustration on printed page 17, beside the military saddles on page 43, on the motor saddles on pages 45 and 47, and in the lower margin of printed page 52. They are a contemporary user’s working notes, a dealer’s or an agent’s, and they are part of the artifact rather than damage. They have been left as found and are described in the page captions.

One defect should be recorded. Printed pages 41 and 42 are absent from the scan: the sheet that follows printed page 40 carries printed page 43 as its facing half, so one leaf was skipped when the book was imaged. Never cite 1907 pages 41 or 42 from this record. The rest of the book runs continuously from the cover to printed page 64.

This record reproduces eight leaves: the cover, the title page, the index, the guarantee, the B 28, the military saddles and the two anti-vibratory motor saddle openings. The remaining pages, covering the path and racing saddles, the roadster spring saddles, the saddle leather and saddle clip essays, the hygienic saddles, the rifle clips, the tool and luggage bags, the gear cases and the dress guards, are held in the Ebykr collection but are not reproduced here.

The scan runs about 1,050 pixels across per two-page spread, roughly 525 pixels per printed page, and the images are presented at twice that, the house ratio for this run. Headings, model numbers, prices and body text read cleanly. The small specification type in the outer column sits at the floor of legibility, and the sub-ounce fractions in it should not be treated as exact. Shipped as scanned, with no white point normalization.

— Front cover —

[Front cover. Black printed card within a ruled border, lettered in cream.]

BROOKS

REGISTERED TRADE MARK

SADDLES SEATS &c

FOR

CYCLES & MOTORS

1907

SPECIALITIES

COPYRIGHT. ENT. STA. HALL.

— Title page —

[Inside front cover, blank, facing the title page.]

For over Twenty Years the Recognised STANDARD of PERFECTION

BROOKS

(REGISTERED TRADE MARK)

Cycle Saddles

AND OTHER

Cycle and Motor Specialities for 1907

WARNING.—We have received complaints that Saddles of various other makes, not bearing the name “Brooks,” have been passed off upon unsuspecting buyers as “Made by Brooks,”

We wish to impress upon all Cyclists that

Every Saddle made by us bears our Name

on both Flaps, and has at the back the name-plate, “BROOKS,” so well known to all riders.

NO OTHER SADDLE IS MADE BY US.

Established 1866

J. B. BROOKS & CO. Ld.

BIRMINGHAM

Telephone Nos. 1213 & 5174.
Use either number.

Telegrams: “Brooks, Birmingham”

COND BROS. BIRM.

— Pages 2 and 3 —

[Printed page 2]

A Poor Saddle is Bad Economy

Brooks Saddles

ARE THE RECOGNISED STANDARD OF PERFECTION IN CYCLE SADDLES

IN EVERY COUNTRY THEY ARE ACKNOWLEDGED TO STAND

Pre-Eminent

No Saddles are like Brooks

Even copies have not the detail improvements which we are continually introducing, and it goes without saying, they have not the

QUALITY, COMFORT, AND STYLE

[Printed page 3]

Index

Page
Adjustment of the Saddle 24
Anti-vibratory Motor Cycle Seats 49
” ” Saddles 45, 47
” Seats 28, 30, 49, 51
” Spring Tri-car Seats 51
Army Cycle Tool Bags 58
Bags, Carrier 63
” Frame 62, 63
” Tool 53 to 61
Cape Carrier 64
Clips, Rifle 52
” Saddle 34 to 40
Cycle Tool Bags 53 to 57
Facts of Importance 4, 5
Guarantee and Repairs 7
Height, Size, and Weight of Saddle 6
Hints and Suggestions 8 to 50
Hygienic Saddles 22
Military Saddles 43
Motor Cycle Tool Bags 59 to 61
” Saddle 47
Padded Seats 45
Parcel Carrier Straps 64
Roadster Spring Saddles 10 to 16
Saddle Leather 42 to 50

SADDLES, CYCLE, FOR GENTLEMEN.

Page Page Page
B9 11 B20 21 B76 29
B10 11 B21 23 B77 27
B11 9 B24/1 17 B85 33
B11 Champion 9 B25 (Boys’) 23 B90/1 37
B16 19 B28 17 B90/2 39
B17 15 B32 13 B90/3 39
B17 Champion 15 B33 31 B93 35
B18 21 B36 29 B95 33
B19 15 B40 31 B99 37
B60 35 B120 41
B75 25 B302 25

SADDLES, CYCLE, FOR LADIES.

Page Page Page
B10L 11 B25 (Girls’) 23 B77L 27
B16L 19 B33L 31 B85L 33
B18L 21 B36L 29 B85L/3 33
B20L 21 B40L 31 B93L 35
B21L 23 B60L 35 B302L 25
B24L/1 17 B75L 25

Page
Spanners 40, 42
Spring Saddles, Roadster 10 to 16
” Support 19, 27
Tool Bags 53 to 61
Warning 50
Weight, Height, and Size of Saddle 6

— Pages 6 and 7 —

[Printed page 6]

Size, Weight, and Height of Saddles

IN this catalogue, all Saddles have size, weight, and height specified. In reference to the size, it is necessary that some consistent method of measuring be adopted, and we have utilised throughout that method by which the length of the foot is obtained by a bootmaker. The measurements given, therefore, cannot be taken as stating the exact amount of seat-room; but rather enable the rider to more readily compare one saddle with another. As to the weight—whilst this has been given as accurately as possible in all instances, slight variations may occur, due to the varying weight and thickness of the leather.

The height has been measured from the centre of the clip-bolt to the under surface of the leather, as being the most convenient method, but this measurement does not indicate the height above the L pillar, as this latter is greater or less, according to the position, turned up or down, in which the rider uses his clip.

[Printed page 7]

Guarantee and Repairs

WHILST giving no so-called guarantee, we emphasise the fact that Brooks Saddles are made throughout of the best materials to be obtained, which, combined with experience and careful workmanship, and constant testing, is the best and safest guarantee that can be given.

We judge each repair on its individual merits, and always endeavour to act with fairness and liberality. We carry out all repairs in the shortest possible time, returning them to the owner immediately on completion. All repairs should be sent to us CARRIAGE PAID, and, in order to more fully ensure a prompt return, the name and address of the sender should be attached to the saddle itself, and, in addition, a letter should be sent, advising despatch. If the clip is returned with the saddle, it should be securely attached thereto, as we have observed that the clip is very liable to be lost in transit.

When writing for a part for replacement, it is advisable to return the defective part to avoid delay and confusion.

— Pages 16 and 17 —

[Printed page 16. The left-hand pages of this section carry a running essay with side-headings in the margin.]

[Side-heading: Fast Riders] When riding at high speeds, a large proportion of the rider’s weight is carried by the pedals, the saddle being relieved to a corresponding extent, thus justifying the use of a light road-racing saddle. Moreover, riders who go really fast are usually men who know how to distribute their weight over the machine, and ease its passage over rough places, and consequently they subject the saddle to far less strain than does the average cyclist.

[Side-heading: Moderate Speeds] Many riders overlook this, and think that at slow and moderate speeds a light road-racing saddle is at least equally suitable for them; but we are convinced that many such would obtain far better results in every way by the use of a roadster spring saddle.

[Side-heading: Light Saddles] For use on light cycles, riders frequently require a saddle in which the weight has been curtailed wherever possible; but we wish to point out to all concerned that a saddle of this character is not intended for any chance rider who may fancy a light and neat

[Printed page 17]

BROOKS

(REGISTERED TRADE MARK)

BIRMINGHAM.

THE GUARANTEE BROOKS OF QUALITY

Patent Light Road Saddle

B 24/1 for Gentlemen
Size, 10 1/2 in. x 8 1/2 in.
Weight, 1 lb. 13 oz.
Height, 2 1/2 in.

B 24 L/1 for Ladies
Size, 9 1/2 in. x 8 1/2 in.
Weight, 1 lb. 11 oz.
Height, 2 1/2 in.

Enamel, 8/6
Nickel, 10/6

HAS our patent stranded-wire framing. A thoroughly well made and superior saddle, with good leather top, well formed to shape.

New Patent Road Saddle.

In Gentlemen’s Model only. Superfine Leather.

B 28 for Gentlemen only

Size 2
Size, 10 1/2 in. x 8 1/2 in.
Weight, 2 lb. 8 1/2 oz.
Height, 2 3/8 in.

Size 3
Size, 12 in. x 9 1/2 in.
Weight, 2 lb. 11 oz.
Height, 2 3/8 in.

Size 2 Size 3
Enamel, 11/6 Enamel, 12/6
Nickel, 13/6 Nickel, [illegible]

THIS pattern has been greatly improved for 1907. The loop-coil spring at the front gives additional ease and elasticity, whilst the tension is well removed from the peak and is very accessible. At the rear, our patent system of rubber buffers is fitted. A great favourite with all who ride the hammock pattern saddle.

[Period annotation in ink across the B 24/1 illustration: “Size 2 should be Size 1”, with a check mark beside each of the two saddles.]

— Pages 40 and 43 —

[This sheet pairs printed page 40 with printed page 43. Printed pages 41 and 42 are absent from the scan.]

[Printed page 40]

surrounded by pressure, and not only is the security of the clip increased, but all crushing or buckling of the saddle-pillar, consequent on the great pressure exerted through the tight screwing of the nuts, is avoided.

[Side-heading: Screw up both Nuts] After arranging the saddle at the angle and position required, both nuts should be firmly and equally screwed up, as it is important to distribute the strain fairly equally on the two ends of the bolt, which otherwise is apt to be drawn through on one side too much, leaving the nut upon the other side only secured by a few threads of the screw, which are thus liable to strip off and render the bolt quite useless. To ensure the proper fixing of the clip, [Side-heading: A good strong Spanner] a good strong spanner should be used, and it should be a well-fitting one. Many riders use weak and inferior spanners, and, having screwed up the nuts till the spanner shows signs of giving, believe the clip to be then sufficiently secure, but find after riding a few miles that the saddle is inclined

[Printed page 43]

BROOKS

(REGISTERED TRADE MARK)

BIRMINGHAM.

THE GUARANTEE BROOKS OF QUALITY

Patent Military Saddles.

As adopted by His Majesty’s War Office.

No. 1 Military
Size, 11 1/2 in. x 9 in.
Weight, 2 lb. 10 oz.
Height, 2 in.

14/-

A LARGE firm seat, with comfortable springs, and having the low build so frequently required. Finest quality and finish throughout.

Both these saddles are thoroughly well and strongly made, to stand military work. All metal parts gun-browned.

No. 2 Military
Size, 11 1/2 in. x 9 in.
Weight, 1 lb. 15 oz.
Height, 2 in.

11/-

A LARGE firm seat, somewhat lighter in construction, and fitted with our well-known patent four-wire framing. Finest quality and finish throughout.

[Period annotation in ink: a check mark beside each of the two saddles.]

— Pages 44 and 45 —

[Printed page 44]

of a saddle top, and in no small degree contributes to the undoubted pre-eminence of the Brooks saddles.

[Side-heading: Care of the Saddle] We have now to consider the best means of keeping the saddle in good order. As regards the framing, it needs no attention except that, if the machine is put by for any length of time, or is subject to much use in wet weather, vaseline should be applied to the plated parts of the saddle in common with those of the machine itself. In regard to the leather, which generally receives little or no attention, we do not hesitate to say that the small amount of time or trouble which need be expended upon it, would be amply repaid by the increased durability, better retention of shape, and consequent extra comfort that would ensue.

[Side-heading: To Tension the Leather] Although not often occurring with Brooks saddles, it may happen that the leather, after wear and exposure to rain or perspiration, has stretched and become too loose for comfort. In such a case it can easily be tightened

[Printed page 45]

BROOKS

(REGISTERED TRADE MARK)

BIRMINGHAM.

THE GUARANTEE BROOKS OF QUALITY

Patent Anti-vibratory Motor Saddle.

With Patent Compound Springs.
One spring in tension; the other in compression.

B 100
Size, 12 in. x 9 1/4 in.
Weight, 4 lb. 15 oz.
Height, 3 1/2 in.

B 100/4
Size, 13 1/2 in. x 10 1/2 in.
Weight, 5 lb. 4 oz.
Height, 4 in.

Complete comfort.
Absolutely no vibration.
Finest Selected Leather.

A MOST luxurious saddle, with great smoothness and sensitiveness of action. The patented compound springs, the one in tension, the other in compression, have a compensating action, absorbing all vibration within themselves, and removing any tendency to bounce or rebound over rough places. The leather is of an extra stout superfine quality, perfectly shaped. For long rides, when room and ease are necessary, we recommend the larger size.

B 100 B 100/4
Enamel, 22/- Enamel, 25/6
Nickel, 26/- Nickel, 30/-

As both sizes are made in several strengths, rider’s weight should be mentioned.

Extra for padded top … B 100, 2/6 B 100/4, 3/6

Brooks Padded Seat

B 100 and B 100/4 can now be obtained comfortably padded all over as shown in the illustration, effecting, in conjunction with the wonderful ease of our patent compound springs, a remarkable elimination of fatigue in long distance rides.

[Period annotation in ink beside the price line, partly struck through and difficult to read.]

— Pages 46 and 47 —

[Printed page 46]

by means of the nut under the peak. A saddle should not, however, be tensioned over tightly, as it will then become too hard for comfort.

[Side-heading: A possible Squeak] It sometimes happens that the slight friction which takes place between the leather and its steel cantle develops into a rather annoying squeak. Of course, the noise may proceed from two adjacent coils of a spring, in which case the coils may, if necessary, be prized slightly apart, or a spot of oil will stop the noise. If the sound comes from the leather, turn the saddle upside down, and run a very little oil (from the oil-can) all round the cantle-plate and nose-piece, between the steel and the leather. Of course, if the saddle is one with a working joint in its construction, a spot of oil may be necessary there, too.

[Side-heading: Use of “Dressing”] The continual exposure to moisture, either from rain or perspiration, combined with the strong tension under which it is always placed, naturally

[Printed page 47]

BROOKS

(REGISTERED TRADE MARK)

BIRMINGHAM.

THE GUARANTEE BROOKS OF QUALITY

Patent Anti-Vibratory Motor Saddle.

With Patent Compound Springs.
One spring in tension; the other in compression.

B 105
Size, 12 in. x 9 1/4 in.
Weight, 4 lb. 12 oz.
Height, 3 1/4 in.

B 105/4
Size, 13 1/2 in. x 10 1/4 in.
Weight, 5 lb. 1/2 oz.
Height, 3 1/4 in.

THIS saddle has a specially shaped bracket to enable the rider to get low down on the machine. In other respects it is identical with B 100. Finest selected leather of extra substance and strength.

B 105. B 105/4.
Enamel, 22/- Enamel, 25/6
Nickel, 26/- Nickel, 30/-

With comfortably padded tops, as shown on previous page, extra, B 105, 2/6; B 105/4, 3/6.

Patent Motor Saddle.

B 90/3
Size, 12 in. x 9 1/4 in.
Weight, 3 lb. 11 oz.
Height, 4 in.

Enamel, 14/- Nickel, 16/6

A MOST easy and resilient saddle, with plenty of spring, giving perfect ease and comfort. The seat yields along its entire length, and does not merely sag in the middle. Finest selected leather, of extra substance and strength.

[Period annotations in ink and pencil across the B 105 illustration, including the note “1/4 in. lower than B 100” beside the model heading and “+ eyelet” beside the B 90/3.]