About Bike Fenders

Although most bicyclists prefer clear and sunny weather, many bikers also ride during wet weather. However, in these conditions, it's important to keep both your bike and your clothes clean.
Bike fenders help protect the both the bike and rider from flying mud, grime and rain from the roads.

  1. Function

    • Some European style bicycles come with fenders already installed, but most people have to install aftermarket fenders on American bicycles themselves. Bike fenders can help protect your bicycle from muddy, sandy water. By keeping your gears, chains and brakes clean free of road grit, you can keep these vital components in good working order.
      For wet weather riding, many bicyclists also invest in specialized riding clothes, like a waterproof pants or a rain cape, to keep dry. You can also buy a special headlight so other motorists and bikers can see you in foggy or low visibility weather conditions.

    Considerations

    • Consider what materials you want for your bike fenders. Many models are made of a combination of flexible, weatherproof and sturdy materials, like polycarbonate, chrome, copper, stainless steel, aluminum, rubber or plastic. Most styles are silver or black in color, so they can fit in with bike's overall color scheme. Some fenders also are made of wood, but these styles are less common on contemporary bicycles.

    Types

    • Popular brands include: Axiom, ESGE/German SKS, Planet Bike, Zéfal or Delta. Most manufacturers offer fenders to fit common wheel sizes. Most fenders range in price from about $30 to $60. Find out if the mounting hardware, adapter kits and clamps are included or if you need to buy these items separately. Although cyclists may worry about adding additional weight to their bikes, most fenders only weigh about one pound.
      You can usually find bicycle fenders at any high quality bicycle shop or sports specialty shop. However, you may find a better selection of fenders on online sites if commuter biking isn't popular in your area.

    Identification

    • A set of long, full length sized bike fenders is the best solution for most bicyclists. These types of fenders usually cover from the chains to the back tire of the cycle on both tires. Adding fenders with attached mudflaps also provides additional protection for your feet and shoes.

    Misconceptions

    • Clip-on fenders are a cheaper and easier to install option, but they don't provide as much coverage from roadway mud and water. Many racing style bikes don't have enough space for full bike fenders, so it's a better option than no fenders.
      You can also buy shorty fenders, but they are mainly added for style and don't offer much practical protection.