If you enjoy biking in the rain or riding through puddles but want to avoid the dreaded rooster tail on the back of your shorts, a pair of fenders or mudguards is your best bet. Fenders were often standard on bikes a few decades ago, but are not usually included with a high-performance bike. They are, however, worthy of considertion if you commute or enjoy touring. The best fenders fit well, detach quickly in emergencies and are durable.
SKS P35 Mudguards
For nonracing road bikes, the SKS P35 mudguards are a high-quality choice. Made of a combination of plastic and chrome, they are durable, easily withstanding the rigors of the road as well as bumps during storage and commuting. They are available in both narrow and wider widths to fit a broad range of road tires, and come equipped with a Secu-Clip. This device releases the guard's stays in the event that an object becomes lodged between the guard and the tire. These mudguards earned 4.5 out of 5 stars on Bike Radar, and cost about $50, as of January 2011.
SKS Raceblade XL
The Raceblade XL clips on and protects you from the majority of wet-weather overspray. Earning 4.5 out of 5 stars on Bike Radar, these guards are light, weighing 235 g per pair, and aerodynamic. You can adjust them forward or back for better protection, and they are suitable for 18 to 23 mm tires. One drawback is that they can easily be knocked out of position, causing tire rub. However, SKS includes holes in the rubber mounts as well as cable ties to keep the fenders in place. As of January 2011, the Raceblade XL retails for about $70.
Sykes Wooden Mudguards
If you have a classic bike, or just classic style, Sykes offers a wooden mudguard set. Each pair is made to order from a variety of real wood designs. The wood is sealed in epoxy resin and several coats of UV-resistant polyurethane varnish, making the mudguards essentially impervious to water, snow and slush. The fasteners break free in the event of a jam and the fenders typically allow for enough clearance for your tires. The fenders earned 4.5 out of 5 stars on Bike Radar, but are more expensive, costing from about $150 to over $200, as of January 2011.
Bontrager Approved Fenders
Bontrager offers a set of fenders that provide a more custom fit. Depending on your bike size, your toes can actually bump your fenders when you are turning. According to Bike Radar, they are more difficult to first fit to your bike, but you can adjust them to where they do not hit your shoes around corners. Made of chromium plastic, the Approved fenders are highly durable and earned 4 out of 5 stars on Bike Radar.com. They sell for about $40, as of January 2011.
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