Bike Fenders Round-Up
The Mudhugger front fender is a well-constructed high-end option.
With over 20 inches of rain this month, NorCal residents (such as your author) are left scrambling to find good fender options. Most of us have lived without them during the recent long-term drought, but all the sudden it seems puddles and running water are going to be present on our trails for a while.
Good front fenders keep water and muck off your face, while rear fenders are tasked with keeping your shorts dry. But which fenders do the job without getting in the way, or causing other aggravation? Press play to hear about some of the options we’ve been testing during these rainy days.
//www.youtube.com/watch?v=g0qvDCeDBbM
Mudhugger
The priciest option of this group is also one of the best. Durable, molded plastic fenders stay on the bike securely and provide great coverage. Front fender: $30 | Rear fender: $38 | More info at www.themudhugger.us.com
MarshGuard
The simplest and smallest of the front fenders in the lot is the original MarshGuard. It is a flat panel cut from an ingenious template and shaped upon installation. It’s not large or extremely effective but it’s effective enough to keep water and mud out of your eyes. Standard fork fender: $16 | More info at marshguard.com
MadeRad
Based on the MarshGuard design, we included these in the round-up because they are fun creations by master painter Tony Baumann. Printed front fender: $23 | More info at: www.maderadbytony.com
SKS
This is the ultimate set of fenders for fat bikes and plus bikes. They are big, secure and keep their shape very well. Coverage behind and in front of a 29er wheel is also excellent. And the wide, long seat post mounted fender has an adjustable tension belt to secure it in place. Fatboard set (front and rear): $55 | Shock board XL front: $25 | X-Dry XL: $20 | More info at www.sks-germany.com
Blackburn
The front fender is frame mounted and the rear is positioned in place by a pivoting arm. Construction is very robust and installation is tool-free. Splashboard Fender Combo: $25 | More info at www.blackburndesign.com
That’s what we have in the test rotation so far. The Mudhugger is the best but it is pricey and the rear has an “interesting” look. The SKS fenders provide great coverage and great construction. The Blackburn set is a good value.
What fenders are you using this winter?
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