Any Berthoud saddle experts here?

[Alan]

I have 3 Berthoud Soulor saddles and they are adjustable for tension but the tension screw can only go so far in the nose section. Anyone know how much length can extend behind the nose piece?

Also I have had some slippage so assume that I should be using light thread locker on tension bolt. Can this be confirmed?

You can buy new covers but they aren't cheap but are less than a new saddle.

These are really good saddles and highly recommended.

Alan

[bironi]

I would contact Berthoud, but think carefully in phrasing your question.
I have 4 Berthoud saddles, but am unable to interpret you queries.
Good luck.

[marciero]

Are you saying you have bottomed out the adjustment? I have two of these and have never adjusted the tension on one of them. Its pretty concacave after 10 years but on the other I actually loosened it after a year to give it just a little concavity, and it seems to retain its shape.

[Hilltopperny]

My favorite saddles. Are you referring to the tension bolt or the little bolts that keep the leather on the saddle. I find those small bolts that hold the leather in place loosen over time and need tightening. I have yet to get the tension bolt fully extended on any of them over the years, but I have a bunch of bikes!

[Alan]

I am referring to the tension bolt. I am trying to understand when I am approaching end of life for the cover by understanding what is the max length of the tension bolt to extend from saddle nose piece. I asked Compass and no reply from them.

I did ask Berthoud directly and their reply is below at the bottom of this thread.

I measured my saddles ( and I have 3) and all are extending about 10mm from the end of the nose piece so I assume that I have plenty to time as I can screw the bolt in another 20mm. I am just going to keep tightening the saddle cover until it won't go any more and then probably order a new leather saddle cover.

Any other thoughts? Has anyone had to replace a cover?

Alan


From Berthoud:

Thank you for contacting us and your interest.

The maximum length of tension bolt that would be visible under the saddle is around 30mm.

You should not have some slippage at the tension bolt. The other screw of the saddle might slip/loss and for them, yes you can use thread locker but not for the tension bolt (you can use all kind of thread locker).

We don’t have other advice than the one we gave online or on the note you have with the saddle.

But if you have other question, we’re here !

Kind regards,

[bironi]

I believe a solution would come to you if some photos were provided.

[bironi]

I did take a look at my 4 saddles. 3 have 10mm of exposed thread, 1 has 15mm. I’m pretty sure the 15mm is the one I purchased used from a friend.
So it has more miles and likely more saddle conditioner.
Unless you’re a big guy or ride big miles, or worried about Berthoud’s future.
Just enjoy the ride.