How to Choose the Right Bicycle Fenders!

Cycling on a beautiful day is pure bliss! The sun is out, the birds are singing and the wind feels great! That is, until you realize that those winds are blowing storm clouds in to spoil your fantastic day on the bike path. The problem is you're now miles from your car, and the drizzle is starting.

About the time you know you'll soon be in a downpour, thoughts go back to your local bike shop. When you were in for a tune-up in the spring, conversation turned towards the nice clip-on bicycle fenders hanging on the wall. You passed on the fenders, reasoning that you wouldn't need them. After all, you are a fair weather rider! Oops!

Fenders are one of those necessary accessories if you ride much at all. There are many excuses you can use to not make the fender plunge, but those excuses are all wet! Some will say bicycle fenders are too heavy. Some say they are flimsy. Many don't want to waste their money on bicycle fenders when it could be spent on that snazzy pair of riding shorts. Whatever the reason, think about it the next time the rain hits.

Fenders are available in several different styles that will fit most bicycles and recumbents. Most people remember the big metal fenders on an old cruiser bike. Metal bicycle fenders ARE heavy. But the full wrap design that most metal fenders use offer the best protection. This type of fender set can be a real challenge though. Many modern bicycles don't have the eyelet attaching points needed on the frame or fork for the metal braces that are used to attach these fenders. In addition, many full metal fender sets are designed to be attached to nutted axles. Bolt on axles are rarely used now since quick release hubs have increased in popularity.

The more popular bicycle fenders today are a clip-on design. These fenders are normally made of a tough composite resin material. These are made to clip on to the bike when needed, or clip off just as easily. The brackets that come with clip-on fenders mount easily to most bicycle frames and forks.

Another option that some cyclists use is found on the rear carrier rack, Some models of these carriers sport a small plate that acts as a rear fender, but offers limited protection. To complement the rear carrier fender, a front splash guard is available for the front wheel. The splash guard attaches to the frames down tube. Like the rear carrier fender, these splash guards offer limited protection.

Regardless of the type of bicycle fenders you choose, I assure you that you will really appreciate them the next time the storm clouds are gathering. Check out the styles at your local bike shop and invest in a set today!