Saddles, like the body parts which interface with them, are very personal items. Pity the poor designer who tries to make "one size fit all." It's just not possible.
Fred (Medicine Bear) rode one of my modified OEM seats while his Russell Day Long was being built, so I'll let him comment.
I have three OEM saddles, each with a different degree of modification. Two, including the one Fred rode, look totally stock. The third is one I built for myself. I added "wings" a la Russell to widen the butt pocket area and destressed the weight bearing under the midline moving the weight out to the sides. I had a local upholsterer make a new cover in a silver/gray vinyl which looks good with the Silver 03ST I ride. I rode it back from CheapSTOC, a bit over 300 mi with zero discomfort.
I saw another mod technique described the other day. I'll try it on the next OEM saddle I get.
I have a file complete with .jpgs of the modifications I have done. I'm located about 80 mi NNE of Houston, TX on the east shore of Lake Livingston.
I'll be pleased to be of aid to anyone on the forum or list. Being full time retired gives me the time to do such things.
JR
New E-mail address:
jrev@cebridge.net