Brooks Cambium C17 vs Selle Royal Respiro
Comparison 2026 — Saddles
VS
Our verdict
Based on our weighted scoring, the Brooks Cambium C17 edges out the Selle Royal Respiro with an overall score of 87/100 against 78/100. It scores particularly well on comfort (88/100) and durability (92/100), making it the better all-round pick in Saddles.
The Selle Royal Respiro remains a sensible alternative if price is your main concern — it lands at €45.00 versus €85.00.
Comfort winner
Brooks Cambium C17
4% higher than its rival
Value winner
Selle Royal Respiro
8% better value for money
Specifications
| Specification | Brooks Cambium C17 | Selle Royal Respiro |
|---|---|---|
| Price | €85.00 | €45.00+89% |
| Rating | ★4.4 (1,100) | ★4.3 (2,800) |
| Overall | 87/100+12% | 78/100 |
| Dimensions | ||
| Width | 162 mm (C17) / 184 mm (C17 Special) | 245 mm (heren) / 260 mm (dames Moderate Woman)+51% |
| Length | 283 mm+5% | 270 mm |
| Weight | 405 g+52% | 615 g |
| Material | ||
| Cover | Natuurrubber + organisch katoen (vulcaniseerd) | Waterbestendig kunstleder |
| Frame | Aluminium | — |
| Rails | Staal (Tubular steel) | Staal |
| Padding | — | Royalgel + elastomeer |
Pros and cons
Brooks Cambium C17
Pros
- No break-in needed — comfortable from day one like a Selle Royal, but far more durable
- 100% weatherproof — leave it outside in Dutch rain without worry
- Slight rubber flex gives a natural cushioned feel without gel
- Organic cotton and rubber material is more sustainable than synthetic alternatives
Cons
- Does not mould to your anatomy like the classic B17 — that remains unique
- Rubber and cotton can feel temporarily stiffer in extreme cold (-5°C)
Selle Royal Respiro
Pros
- Instant comfort from the first ride — no break-in required
- Royalgel and elastomer damping absorbs Dutch cobblestones and speed bumps
- Central cutout relieves perineal pressure in upright riding posture
- Sharp 45 euro price — most accessible comfort saddle in its class
Cons
- Gel compresses after 2-3 years of heavy use — plan to replace around 8,000 km
- At 245 mm wide it is too bulky for sustained rides above 25 km/h