I PM'd you a longer response but the short version:

I initially chose the B-17 because of a good price at Nashbar. It was love-at-first-ride and even better as time went one. Subsequent, I've ridden a Champion Flyer S (same top as a B-17 S) and feel the midsection and nose are much stiffer. I recommend the regular because I think it's the length that lets the leather give more in the pereneal area where hammock is a nice feeling. Also, I'd say get a regular for your first b/c it breaks in easier than, say, a Champion Special (thicker leather).

Good Luck!

Tzivia