Well, being Bill's wife I got first pick from his inventory of Berthoud saddles. That was a tough choice. I really liked the cork effect, but Bill says there will eventually be Berthoud handlebar tape in natural, so then I leaned towards a natural colored (or rather not colored) saddle. But after more thought I went back to the cork, as they are beautiful, and chose the smaller women's model.

First ride, 10 miles, a bit firm feeling, but a comfortable shape. Second ride, 60 miles, still hard yet comfortable enough. Next I had to ship my bike with saddle to Seattle as I was riding the Seattle to Portland Cycling Classic. With the Berthoud saddle shipped off, my next ride was back on my old Brooks Team Pro S. I must admit I sunk down into this saddle like it was a Barcalounger... comfortable and wide. Then I fly to Seattle and get out the bike with the Berthoud and ride if around Lake Washington, 60 miles, comfortable, firm support. I'm now using the KlickFix mounting holes in the crescent of the saddle to sport a tidy, smallish Berthoud tool bag. Finally the big event, day one of Seattle to Portland, I rode 150 miles and fell in love with the saddle, with not discomfort in my rear. My back and right knee were aching terribly, so I bailed on the second day of the ride. I'm back home in New Orleans and my bike is still in transit with UPS. I will be very happy to see my Berthoud saddle, and put it on my regular bike. I would recommend a Berthoud saddle to experienced cyclist wanting performance, high quality, and beauty.