Friedrichstafen, Germany -Gilles Berthoud presented his new leather saddle to the world bicycle trade yesterday to a very favorable reception.

The Berthoud leather saddle comes in three colors: black, “cork” and natural. The natural color is not dyed and will vary with the hide used. The saddles are pre-softened by hand.

The initial model is a casual-riding saddle, something between the B.17 and the Team Pro. It will come in men’s and women’s version. Plans include sport models and lightweight models.

The Berthoud saddle has many unique features. A partial list includes:
Extra thick leather
The leather can be easily removed with an allen key
Patented tensioning mechanism that won’t twist
Flexible cantle plate for extra comfort.
Lighter than a Brooks
Brass washers engraved “Gilles Berthoud France”
Nose washer engraved with sequential serial number

M. Berthoud has also developed leather grips, bar tape, and handlebar plugs.

The saddles should cost in the $250 neighborhood. I wil be able to say better when I know the price the US Importer will charge. Be assured we will have these beautiful new saddles as soon as they are available.

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Update: 16 September: The Berthoud distributor in the US (Euro Asia Imports) tells me they expect to get their first shipment of the Berthoud leather line towards the end of December.

I got a look at Gilles Berthoud’s new leather saddle yesterday. It is a knockout. Pictures after the official unveiling at Eurobike. Hints: “cork” color as well as tan and black. Leather tape, grips, and plugs.