Reddit mentions: The best bike fenders
We found 221 Reddit comments discussing the best bike fenders. We ran sentiment analysis on each of these comments to determine how redditors feel about different products. We found 105 products and ranked them based on the amount of positive reactions they received. Here are the top 20.
1. SKS Raceblade Bicycle Fender Set
- Quick release racing bike fender
- No eyelets required
- Tool-free mounting in seconds
- Includes adapter for aero forks
- Weighs 250 grams
Features:
Specs:
Color | Black |
Release date | October 2007 |
Size | 700 x 18-23 Tires |
2. SKS X-Tra Dry Rear Bicycle Fender for 26 inch wheels
Fender is an update of classic backscratcher fender, named for the shape; long and straight, with curve at one endQuick-release strap grabs onto seat post or seat tube; pivot behind quick release to adjust angle of fenderLong, narrow fender surface keeps chamois from getting too soggy, and rooster t...
Specs:
Color | Black |
Height | 22.4 Inches |
Length | 1.4 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | October 2007 |
Size | One Size |
Weight | 0.3 Pounds |
Width | 7.3 Inches |
3. SKS P45 Black Chromoplastic Longboard, Bicycle Fenderset (Tires Sized 700 x 28-37)
- Secu-clip Break-away front clips for safety
- 45mm Fender width for 700 x 28-37mm tires
- Edge protectors for a cool refined finished look and extra long mud flap for additional spray coverage; Secu-clip Break-away front clips for safety
- 3.4mm V-stays and stainless hardware to fight corrosion; Hardware is designed to work with most bikes but additional hardware may be needed
Features:
Specs:
Color | Black |
Height | 3 Inches |
Length | 30 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | January 2016 |
Size | 700x28-37 |
Weight | 1.85 Pounds |
Width | 18.5 Inches |
4. Planet Bike Hardcore Bike Front and Rear Fender Set, 700C x 45mm, Bike Mount, Black, Plastic Mudguard
Sport Type: Cycling
Specs:
Color | BLACK |
Height | 15 Inches |
Length | 15 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | August 2011 |
Size | 700C x 45mm |
Weight | 1.13 Pounds |
Width | 2 Inches |
5. SKS S-Blade Rear Fender for 700c wheels
Quick - Release - FasteningEasily adjustable angle setting to optimize spray coverage52mm Profile width
Specs:
Color | Black |
Height | 0.393700787 Inches |
Length | 18.3070865955 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | September 2018 |
Size | 28-Inch |
Weight | 0.25 Pounds |
Width | 0.393700787 Inches |
6. SKS-Germany P50 Chromoplastic Longboard Bicycle Fenderset, Black
- Fender profile will work with tires up to 45mm wide
- 50mm fender profile must fit through seat stays and fork legs
- Fender eyelets or frame clamps (sold separately) are necessary for mounting
- 3.4mm V-stays and stainless steel hardware
- Front Fender Length: 960mm
- Rear Fender Length: 1300mm
- Weight (Set): 725g
- Compatible with disc brakes
- Installation difficulty rating: 8 out of 10. Install time is roughly 1.5 hours. Tools are required.
- Made in Germany
Features:
Specs:
Color | Black |
Height | 4 Inches |
Length | 30 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Size | 700 x 38-45 (29er) |
Weight | 0.1 Pounds |
Width | 18 Inches |
7. Crud RoadRacer MK2 Road Fenders
- Mudguards for road/race bikes with minimum clearance
- Extended rear guard provides full coverage and spray protection
- Keeps more debris off you and cyclists riding behind you
- Unique "floating" attachment system hovers in place to absorb vibration and eliminate rubbing and rattling
- Interior seatstay brushes prevent fenders from touching the tires
Features:
Specs:
Height | 1.5 Inches |
Length | 21 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Weight | 0.2 Pounds |
Width | 8 Inches |
8. Planet Bike Full bike fenders - 700c x 45mm
Durable all-weather polycarbonate bladesSteel U-stays and hardware are pre-installedEyelets Required?: YeRelease Tabs on front fender for added safetyMax tire size: 700c x 35mm or 27” x 1.25”
Specs:
Color | Black |
Height | 2.6 Inches |
Length | 31 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Size | 45mm |
Weight | 1.02 Pounds |
Width | 12 Inches |
9. Planet Bike Cascadia bike fenders - 700c x 45mm (black) (maximum tire Size 35mm)
- Durable all-weather polycarbonate blades
- 130mm mudflaps for extra coverage
- Stainless steel V-stays and hardware are pre-installed and disc brake compatible
- Eyelets Required?: Yes
- Wheel size: 700c
- Recommended tire width: 28-35mm (fender is 45mm wide), maximum tire width 35mm
Features:
Specs:
Color | Black |
Height | 0.25 Inches |
Length | 27 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | May 2011 |
Size | 700C x 45mm |
Weight | 1.6 Pounds |
Width | 1.25 Inches |
10. SKS Mud-X Front Bicycle Fender
- Downtube mounted front fender
- Fastens with rubber straps
- Weighs 90 grams
Features:
Specs:
Color | Black |
Height | 1.968503935 Inches |
Length | 7.87401574 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | October 2007 |
Size | One Size |
Weight | 0.07 Pounds |
Width | 1.968503935 Inches |
11. SKS-Germany Shockblade Fender, 28"-29", Black
700C/28" & 29" compatible front fenderChuck cone installs in steerer tube and fender qr's off of cone/hardwareDual compound plastic for durabilityAdapter available separately for rigid and cannondale forksRecommended tire width - up to 3 inch
Specs:
Color | Black |
Height | 5 Inches |
Length | 28 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Size | 28"-29" |
Weight | 0.24691773344 Pounds |
Width | 5 Inches |
12. Planet Bike Full bike fenders - 26" x 60mm (black)
- Max tire size if 50mm or 1.9" wide
- Steel U-stays and hardware are pre-installed
- Eyelets Required?: Yes
- Release Tabs on front fender for added safety
- Wheel size: 26”
- Durable all-weather polycarbonate blades
- Material: Polycarbonate
- Maximum Tire Width: 48 mm
- Wheel Size: 26"
- Requires Eyelets?: Yes
- Weight: 505 g
Features:
Specs:
Color | Black |
Height | 3 Inches |
Length | 29 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Size | 60mm |
Weight | 1.1 Pounds |
Width | 14 Inches |
13. SKS-Germany X-Blade Fender, 28"-29", Black
700C/28" & 29" compatible rear fenderDual point adjustment to achieve perfect angleMounts to seatpost with non-slip strapEstimated weight 228 gramsDual compound plastic for durability
Specs:
Color | Black |
Height | 5 Inches |
Length | 27 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Size | 28"-29" |
Weight | 0.58 Pounds |
Width | 5 Inches |
14. SKS Germany Shockblade II Bike Fender for 29-Inch Bikes
29 inch compatible Front fenderHigh quality dual compound dirt board for fork mountingQuick release chuck cone attachment mounts to the steerer tubeEstimated weight 112 g
Specs:
Color | Black |
Height | 5 Inches |
Length | 24 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Size | talla_única |
Weight | 0.24 pounds |
Width | 4.8 Inches |
15. SKS P45 Silver Chromoplastic Longboard, Bicycle Fenderset (Tires Sized 700 x 28-37)
Secu-clip Break-away front clips for safety45mm Fender width for 700 x 28-37mm tiresEdge protectors for a cool refined finished look and extra long mud flap for additional spray coverage; Secu-clip Break-away front clips for safety3.4mm V-stays and stainless hardware to fight corrosion; Hardware is ...
Specs:
Color | Silver |
Height | 2.3 Inches |
Length | 29 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Size | 45mm width |
Weight | 1.9 Pounds |
Width | 18 Inches |
16. Axiom Rainrunner Reflex + Disc Fender Set, Road, 700 x 18 - 28C, Set, Black
- Axiom
Features:
17. Portland Design Works Dave's Mud Shovel REAR Fat Bike Fender
Extra-long and wide fenders to block the snow, water or sand while on your fat bikeConstructed of heavy-duty polymerLightweight but sturdy enough to take years of harsh weather abuseMounts in seconds to your seat post for easy on/off depending on riding and weather conditionsUse with all Gen 3 Rambo...
Specs:
Color | Black |
Height | 2 inches |
Length | 28 inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | January 2018 |
Size | One Size |
Weight | 0.3527396192 pounds |
Width | 8 inches |
18. Planet Bike Full ATB Front and Rear Bicycle Fender Set (60mm Wide)
Front and rear fender set for 26 diameter wheels that are 1.75 to 2.25 inches wideUnbreakable Superflex all-weather polycarbonate holds up to abuseQuick-adjusting stainless steel hardware is pre-installed for hassle-free mountingLimited lifetime warranty; 25 percent of the proceeds of this sale supp...
Specs:
Height | 3 Inches |
Length | 28.5 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | June 2007 |
Weight | 1.28 Pounds |
Width | 14.5 Inches |
19. Planet Bike Cascadia ALX Bike Fenders, Black, 700C x 40mm
Rugged aluminum fenders that are easy to installRugged 6061 aluminum construction is corrosion resistant100mm mudflaps provide ultimate coverage and are double-riveted for durabilityHardware is all stainless-steel and pre-installed for hassle-free mountingDisc brake compatible, maximum tire size 40m...
Specs:
Color | Black |
Height | 4.3 Inches |
Length | 15.5 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Size | 700C x 40mm |
Weight | 1.53 Pounds |
Width | 14.8 Inches |
20. SKS-Germany X-Tra Dry XL Rear Quick Release Bicycle Fender
- Flatter angle and longer profile
- Fitting and removal is quick and easy
- Adjustable angle
- Easy quick-release-fastening by powerstrap for all seatposts
- 95mm width/600mm length/162grams
- Maximum seatpost size: 35mm
- Has an angle joint that can be easily set for optimal adjustability
- MADE IN GERMANY !
Features:
Specs:
Color | Black |
Height | 1.968503935 Inches |
Length | 7.87401574 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Size | X-Large |
Weight | 0.34 Pounds |
Width | 1.968503935 Inches |
🎓 Reddit experts on bike fenders
The comments and opinions expressed on this page are written exclusively by redditors. To provide you with the most relevant data, we sourced opinions from the most knowledgeable Reddit users based the total number of upvotes and downvotes received across comments on subreddits where bike fenders are discussed. For your reference and for the sake of transparency, here are the specialists whose opinions mattered the most in our ranking.
Hello and welcome to the wonderful world of alternative transportation. Instead of just bragging about how awesome bikes are, I thought I'd link to a few bikes that are reasonably priced and come with fenders and/or racks for year round enjoyment. I ride year around with minimal fender coverage and I do just fine on my 8 mile commute from Ballard to Downtown, although I'm lucky and work for a non-profit, so we have showers in the building for commuters. I know thats not an option for a lot of larger companies. I mention this because it makes a big difference since my office is on a big hill and I get a little sweaty. But a whores bath, clean clothes and deorderant worked for me before working somewhere with showers.
Anyway, I tried to find bikes under $3k. Sounds like a lot of money, but then again my dinky fiat 500 with a 1.4 4-banger was $19k and is currently in the shop thanks to a hit and run.
Specialized AWOL "Elite" $1500 (disc brakes, fenders, racks, lots of gears, comfy handlebar and seat placement / geometry):
http://www.specialized.com/us/en/bikes/adventure/awol/awol-elite
Specialized AWOL EVO $2500 (same as above, includes friction powered headlight, hydraulic disc brakes):
http://www.specialized.com/us/en/bikes/adventure/awol/awol-evo
Kona Sutra $1500 (same stuff as above mostly, just a different brand):
http://konaworld.com/sutra.cfm
Trek District - 3 models from $800-1100 fenders, rack, gears or single speed options:
http://trekbikes.com/us/en_US/bikes/city/urban-utility/district/c/B441
Trek Lync - $1000-1500 - has fenders, gears and lights built in, disc brakes, smartphone connection for tracking miles, etc:
http://trekbikes.com/us/en_US/bikes/city/urban-utility/lync/c/B442
If you already have a bike but don't know shit about bikes and want to get fenders:
Portland Design Works:
Full Metal Fenders - $120 nice full coverage of the wheels:
https://www.ridepdw.com/goods/fenders/full-metal-fenders-city
Also from PDW, less coverage but cheaper:
https://www.ridepdw.com/goods/fenders/sodapop-fenders
Raceblade fenders are what I use, almost full coverage about $50:
http://www.amazon.com/SKS-Raceblade-Bicycle-Fender-Set/dp/B0019JNTLS
The lights just flickered at my office and now our connection is 5400 baud. Hope that helps some of you try something else besides the bus and driving alone. Any bike shop will be happy to get some fenders on your bike, theres always a solution and the nice thing about shopping from a bike shop instead of online is that you're supporting the local economy. Well I guess you're supporting local when you buy from Amazon too.
If you're on a budget (after buying everything else) what I did was I bought a small flashlight that is compatible with 18650 rechargeable lithium ion batteries for pretty cheap and that works pretty well for general purposes. The battery is powerful enough to provide visibility while riding through the city. I wouldn't use just a regular flashlight with cheap batteries though.I use a bungee band to tie it on to the handlebars and it works very well (you can see it on the picture I posted earlier).
This has also been useful for night time riding and getting a flat. I can easily remove the flashlight and use it to see what I'm doing.
I also highly recommend the road morph g that zedmartinez recommended. It's PERFECT for cycling. I was looking around for a small pump with a hose and pressure gauge and that was the only one that fit the criteria that was any good.
As for fenders, they don't come with the window tourist (if you decide to get it). I got these fenders and they're perfect. They have a mudflap, are sturdy, and most importantly they look pretty good.
I have a very similar build, but with a Diamondback Overdrive 29er. r/eBikes thread here. I have broken numerous chains, chainrings, etc. along the way and have ridden over 1200 in the past couple months now that I am commuting with my bike.
You mentioned that it will primarily be used for commuting, so paying attention to maintenance is going to be huge. Depending on your terrain and weather type, wheels and brakes are going to be extremely important. I have tried both normal brake pads and eBike specific brake pads and both wear down just as quickly for me. I live in a very hilly area and commute 25 miles per day, so I have to buy new brake pads every other month. I am finally about to have to rotate my tires to make them last a little longer, but I am definitely upgrading from the stock tires to some Schwalbe eBike specific tires soon.
I originally went with the BBSHD 42T sprocket, but eventually bought a 52t chainring off Amazon and snapped it after a couple weeks. On top of that, I dealt with a ton of chain droppage in the beginning. I tried a ton of different things, but none worked. It wasn't until I snapped my old chainring and bought the Luna Eclipse chainring that my chain stopped dropping. Also, make sure your gear sensor is fastened to your bike securely and isn't going to move. Sometimes mine will loosen and stop triggering...which caused my Luna Eclipse chainring to bend slightly because of the gear shift, threw off the chainline, and wreaked havoc on my commute. I am seriously considering upgrading to an internally geared hub soon as a result of most of this (plus to be able to shift while stopped...damn hills).
I carry a bike toolkit with me in case anything happens on my commute (extra chain, chain opener/closer tools, wrench, pliers, air pump). This has saved me a TON of calls to my fiancé to pick me up when I am stranded because I broke something on my bike.
Overall, your build looks awesome. If you're spending that much on your bike, consider trying to get a full-suspension bike. I wish I did.
Definitely make sure you pick up some fenders. I have had quite a few stolen until I settled on these that work great and require a bike tool to be removed. Make sure you get a good pair of gloves too. I took a bad fall once and the concrete burned through my nylon gloves in an instant, but I am still happy I had them on. If you want your phone on your bike, I have tried about 4 different mounts and this one is my absolute favorite.
I have had my bike for over a year, so don't feel the need to jump all in right away. Ease into it. I knew very little about bikes before taking the plunge. It has been a hell of a ride and so worth it. Welcome to the club!
I've had the bike for a few weeks now and use it almost entirely for commuting. Here's what I've added since I got the bike:
The stock brakes weren't doing enough to stop me so I swapped them out for some Tektro CR720s. I dropped the yoke as far as I could to give myself as much leverage as possible. Braking is much better now and more reliable than the original set ever was.
I added a rack and trunk bag that's big enough to hold my food and clothes for the day. The only modification I had to make here was filing away some metal from rack mounting leg. It was colliding with frame near the dropout and not allowing the leg to sit close enough to the braze on.
Some of the original cable housings that came with the bike had some gouges in them so Nashbar sent me a new replacement cable set. I swapped out all the brake/shift cables and replaced the bar tape with some SRAM cork tape. The original cables from Nashbar were also a bit too long and were causing excessive friction.
I added some SKS fenders per the recommendations of users on this sub. They were a little finicky to install but I got them on in the end. This particular frame doesn't have bolt holes in either of the two rear bridges so I had to resort to the classic zip tie approach.
As far as the bike goes, it's been performing flawlessly so far. It weighs close to 30 lbs now so it's not the lightest thing in the world. However, the steel frame and the large tires really help smooth out the road quite a bit. The saddle is still the most uncomfortable part of the bike, but I'm hoping to swap it out sometime in the near future. Shifting is still very smooth and the 4 trim positions on the 105 front derailleur is a great feature.
If you're considering getting a bike from Nashbar, I'd definitely recommend them. Their customer service was fantastic and everything they shipped usually got to me door in 2-3 days (even the bike!).
As far as the instant fenders go I really like the Full Windsor because the area of coverage. You might argue it's negligible since the ass saver covers the main area of spray but I've never tested and visually it looks superior albeit more bulky.
But this doesn't solve the issue for the front and you will have a lot of water on your feet and drive train without a front fender.
Raceblades are pretty thin and again might work with the bike you already have.
But ultimately as /u/autophage said, you don't want to pick a bike around it's fender capabilities because most bikes will accommodate fenders one way or another. You should think more about what kind of geometry (which affects the way you sit on the bike and overall comfort of the ride) you would like in a fixed gear and then focus on price range and then maybe fender type.
Check out /r/FixedGearBicycle and the sidebar for recommended bikes. And if you are worried about maintenance don't shy away from your LBS (local bike shop) because they will be helping you with a lot of the instillation and maintenance and establishing a relationship with them can be extremely helpful.
Pro tip: bike most mechanics love beer as tips.
Here is my list I made for another post. It works from 60 to -10 or so.
Here are my recommendations for surviving a Boston winter:
Bibs, Base Layer, Leg Warmers, Arm Warmers, Thermal Jersey, Jacket, Helmet Cover, Toe Cover, Shoe Cover, Gloves, Balaclava & Socks.
This is almost exclusively Pearl Izumi because it fits me, I can get a good deal on most of it if I wait to buy and the quality is amazing. It is not cheap but I rode almost every week outdoors last year during one of the worst winters we have had in a long time.
Also, do yourself a favor and get a rear fender and wet chain lube. Also staying hydrated is very important as anyone would tell you but it is hard to drink cold water when it is cold so I find this stuff from Skratch Labs really helps. Be prepared to a lot more drive train maintenance due to the salt and sand you will get in your chain and cassette.
Let me know what you have questions on and I will be happy to report back. I don't use all of this on every ride, it is weather dependent but in the middle of winter, I certainly like being able to bundle up and then remove a layer or unzip when needed. It makes riding fun when the thermometer dips below 15°F.
The front light is a NiteRider Lumina 650. It has 3 modes, all of which are blindingly bright for regular day to day commuting. I love it. It has saved me from crashing into fallen trees on bike paths and also has been useful to help light the way when riding buddies have their lights die on them.
The front fender is an SKS Grand D.A.D. Here is a link to it on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/SKS-Grand-Mountain-Bicycle-Fender/dp/B00NQMXQ50 The fender is awesome once you can get it installed. It installs with a plug that goes into the bottom of your fork. For my tapered fork I had to use some rubber splicing tape to increase the size of the largest plug to get it to fit correctly. The fender is great for keeping dirt, snow, and water off of my frame bag and most of me. It does not do a great job of keeping that stuff off of the bottom bracket area as you can see in the photo.
Another fender you might be interested in would be the Mud Shovel. Here is that link: http://www.amazon.com/Portland-Design-Works-Shovel-Fender/dp/B008OE5SF6/ref=sr_1_1?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1416263660&sr=1-1&keywords=mud+shovel+fender
These work great: http://www.amazon.com/X-Tra-Rear-Bicycle-Fender-wheels/dp/B000X61N2A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1458140255&sr=8-1&keywords=sks+fender
Not small enough to fit in a backpack (it'll stick out some) but very easy to install/remove and does a great job catching rear-wheel spray. Clamps to the seat post and can easily be adjusted to fit around a saddlebag/light.
Assuming it's a 26" junker MTB, and Washington is the state (versus Washington DC)....
I use these tires while there's no snow: Kenda K838s
I'm on my second year of these tires. They do everything I expect them to do, at a cheap enough price. They do great in wet and dry conditions, and work okay with fresh snow.
For fenders, I use these: Planet Bike ATB Fenders
These perform okay, but honestly, I often wish I had purchased the version with the extra mud flaps. They keep most of the crap off me, but during heavy rain those flaps would be great at keeping my shoes clear of the spray from the K838s.
Some ol' SKS Chromoplastic P45's. Originally wanted to get some Velo Orange mudguards, but those were on sale. Was concerned about rattling, but it's been quiet so far.
I feel like they work best when your tire size is 10mm less than the max rated tire size, 35mm is just plush enough for my intended riding. Amazing how much gunk the fenders cover you from.
I've heard that about the aluminum fenders from a few different sources. A little more money up front, but they seem to have a better reputation than the polycarbonate fenders. Planet Bike has some aluminum ones too that I am considering, I think they may fit the style of the bike better than the hammered ones from Handsome Cycles.
https://www.amazon.com/Planet-Bike-Cascadia-Fenders-Black/dp/B0186ON864/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1536014392&sr=8-1&keywords=cascadia%2Balx&th=1&psc=1
One like the rear would help, but really something longer would be much better.
Another option would be to go the whole hog and just get some SKS Longboard fenders - a relatively neat option with excellent coverate and tidy muflaps that won't look too out-of-place nerdy on that bike.
Yeah they're not a bad deal even at full price. The Plug 4's are around $1500 and come with 105.
The fenders are SKS P50's. On the tour that pic was taken it rained 2 days. The other 2 folks I rode with didn't have fenders - they were pretty muddy. My bike stayed nice and clean!
Been a great bike, I ride it every weekend to the grocery store to do some shopping.
I used to have a good set of SKS shockblade/xtra dry fenders but they got cracked from constant winter use. I'm not sure I'd recommend them for durability but they are super easy to remove and put back on. Similar products are made by blackburn and topeak but I haven't tried them.
Ass Savers makes the fendor bendor which looks promising too.
Two questions:
How much would a splash guard that covers as much as this one does cost?
this one is cheap but does not really look comparable to the one OP modled.
This one seems like a reasonable alternative.
This one looks a lot like the one OP modled, but frankly is more than you would need to spend.
The middle option here is a little over $10 and looks like a pretty reasonable option.
Next question: How much would the filament cost?
I usually pay $20 to $25 per kilo for most filament.
I would also be willing to wager that it's possible to print a decent splash guard with ~250 grams of filament.
Hey there, fellow SF bike commuter.
I use this for my rear (road bike) wheel. Cheap, stays in place, keeps the rain off. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000X61N2A/ref=od_aui_detailpages00?ie=UTF8&psc=1.
I don't use one for my front wheel - the downtube does most of the work, and my feet take the rest. I ride flat pedals, and purchased FiveTen Freerider Element XVI (weather-resistant) shoes. As long as you tie the laces tight, they work pretty well for anything short of a downpour.
I've got a pretty good setup at work - a fan under my desk to help dry stuff out between rides, and I bring an extra set of commute clothes if it's really pouring.
Gonna focus on winter here because I'm not satisfied with my own rain setup yet. Although I will strongly advocate for front and rear fenders like these SKS longboards to keep you drier and cleaner.
I found this blog post to be helpful when I started bike commuting in the Boston area in the winter. Might be useful to you since you are on a budget (as am I). Scroll down to the clothes section for some good recommendations.
The best general piece of advice for cold weather commutes I can give is to dress so you will feel cold when you begin your commute, because you will invariably heat up once you get going (say, within 5 minutes).
Things that are maybe worth spending a little money on:
These are what I use, and they've been great so far. Good protection, they don't weigh a whole lot, sturdy construction, not too expensive, etc.
My main gripe is that they, like the ones you've tried, will require quite a bit of fiddly adjusting at first until they're perfect. At least, mine did. And if you take a spill, you'll likely need to re-adjust them again.
Plus, they're not the simplest to install, so quick, hassle-free removal, if that's something you're after, isn't really going to happen. They can be taken off, but mine bolt on between the frame and the brakes, so it's a bit of an involved process. And the rear one bolts on on the plate where the kickstand would go, and that definitely requires removal of the rear wheel to access. So, my fenders just stay on all the time. It's not been a bad thing, though, as I simply don't worry about it.
For rainy riding; full coverage fenders work the best. Something that hugs the tires fairly well. Something like this (just an example, I can't vouch for the product):
https://www.amazon.com/Planet-Bike-Full-Fenders-Touring/dp/B00TQ43EXG/ref=asc_df_B00TQ43EXG/?tag=googleshopc0c-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=293004696205&hvpos=1o3&hvnetw=g&hvrand=18344359097057539491&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9001133&hvtargid=pla-593788812954&psc=1
I have used some metal fenders from a cruiser bike and attached them to my frame.
Yes 29".
Thank you it looks like good mudguards
edit : I'll take this one too for the front https://www.amazon.ca/SKS-Germany-Shockblade-Fender-27-5-Black/dp/B01LWRA921/ref=sr_1_15?s=sports&ie=UTF8&qid=1543271252&sr=1-15&keywords=fender%2Bsks%2Bavant&th=1&psc=1
I have SKS fenders for my MTB and Planet Bike ones for my commuter. They're both absolutely necessary here in Washington. Fenders are the first thing I recommend to people I work with who ask me about commuting. They go a long way to improve the quality of your ride. Congratulations on your first commute.
SKS Raceblades. I've got them on my bike which has something like 1/2" clearance between the tire and the downtube. They fit perfectly.
For more comfortable, I would consider buying a rear fender. At least you won't get the mud trail up your back when you bike in the rain/slush.
For safer, I would buy yourself a high visibility vest, like this. Do you own a helmet? You should get one of those as well.
What style fenders do people like? Is a front one ever necessary? Most of the splash is on my back. I was looking at this one (link) which seems pretty popular, but it's a funny shape.
That's pretty much how I started my 2 mile commute in 2015. I went reading and bought the Wirecutter's reccommendation at the time, a Trek 7.2 (though I did go for the 2014 7.4 Disc, since my shop had it on a good sale). I added fenders and a kickstand immediately, grabbed a cheap (but safe) Wal-Mart helmet and lights, and started riding when the weather was decent. As I needed them, I added elastic, reflective ankle bands to keep my jeans out of the chain, got a set of decent gloves for cooler weather, a rear rack and expandable trunk bag, upgraded my lights, and bought a cheap bike computer from Aldi.
 
After a few years, I had a better idea of what I really wanted, so last fall I sold the hybrid and picked up a gravel bike to get off the 50mph highway and onto the gravel shoulder and replaced my helmet with a more comfortable and better ventilated one. I moved over the rear rack, bought new, larger fenders and a kickstand, but didn't bother with the computer and just got a handlebar phone mount since I track everything on Strava anyways.
 
Of course I don't NEED all of this to bike commute, but it makes it easier/more comforable/etc. to do so. The only thing I've regretted is the fancy gloves: they work just fine, but I could have spent half the money and gotten something just as well suited to my needs. Thankfully I'm in an area with basically no bike theft, so I just use a cheap cable lock on the rare times I even bother to lock it up.
While I agree that the $5k figure is more than a bit out there given the context, it's not hard at all to beat the RadCity, at the same or better quality, for less money by going DIY.
This build took me less time to throw together than it took to write it out here:
Gravity BaseCamp 1.0: $299
48v 1000w hub motor kit from ebay: $150
48v 14Ah battery from em3ev + 2A charger + $100-ish shipping to USA: $559 (note: em3ev calls it 47v 13.6Ah because they significantly understate the specs of their cells. Any other manufacturer would sell this pack with these cells as 48v 14Ah. Also, this pack includes per-cell fusing, as well as fuses on the signal wires.)
8-speed freewheel for the hub motor: $22
Disk brake compatible rear rack: $35
Fenders: $32
Labor, at $10/hr, assuming a first-time builder: $40
Total, including labor and shipping: $1137
That's $360 less than the RadCity, including labor, for a bike of similar quality and features, with 100% user-replaceable and user-interchangeable parts. And there's room to cut costs further, if you spend more time shopping around than the 5 minutes I spent.
If you don't want to go through that much trouble, that's totally fine. Not everyone finds value in DIY, or enjoys getting their hands greasy. That's why prebuilts exist and sell well, and for a prebuilt, the RadCity isn't a bad value. But the criticism regarding the move to a proprietary battery is valid, and to imply that it's remotely difficult to improve on the RadCity formula by going DIY is, in my opinion, just silly.
Back when I rode a 7.2 FX, I installed these: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0041X5ZX4/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Fit fine, worked great.
Those fenders are too small, I'm guessing your Marlin 5 has 29er wheels, I had a 2018 in a LRG frame and it had 29" wheels.
What about something like this?
https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B01M0C55MK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_t1_hWg.BbPB01KVK
I use these front and back and they work great, cheap too:
https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B01IU5HI8I/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_t1_PYg.BbNKZ5V5B
Try searching "bike fender 29," on Amazon, should bring up a ton of results.
Those fender rods literally can rub you the wrong way. If that happens you can clip them to be shorter.
​
I'm more a fan of the Planet Bike full fender, which uses supports like this...
https://www.amazon.com/Planet-Bike-Full-bike-fenders/dp/B00TQ43EXG/
​
https://www.amazon.com/Planet-Bike-Full-bike-fenders/dp/B00PAFELMI/
​
With these the rod adjusts inside of a sleeve near the mount point. Cleaner and easier IMO.
SKS Longboards are a go to. Breakaway tabs for safety, excellent coverage.
Just purchased its more substantial cousin. It's cheap, easy on/off, and adjustable. Do recommend.
I'm a simple man. I have a bright green backpack, 2 rear niterider lights and 1 front light, and a phone holster for blasting progressive metal and checking the time.
Edit: guess I have fenders too.
SKS-Germany Shockblade Fender, 28"-29", Black https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B01LWRA921/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_agchDbTJA40DX
SKS-Germany X-Blade Fender, 28"-29", Black https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B01M0C55MK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_ZgchDb5JVJNS4
Nite Ize HandleBand Universal Smartphone Bike Handlebar Mount, Black https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B00FU4N4JU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_IcchDbMRX24SG
NiteRider Lumina 750 Boost Combo - Performance Exclusive BLACK https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B01HEF5P62/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_FechDb0FX9VEV
How would does the sizing work on SKS Raceblades, and is the fit pretty universal with most fixed? The bike I am riding is 58cm with 700 x 28 wheels.
http://www.amazon.com/SKS-Raceblade-Bicycle-Fender-Set/dp/B0019JNTLS
THESE look interesting. I've been researching a bit and these seem like the slickest. Yes, I want the practicality of fenders, but, also - it's my road bike and I want it to not look overtly dorky.
I have SKS Longboard fenders on my dedicated commuter bike, which has disc brakes and an internally geared hub. They're plastic with a metal core, so they're strong and they don't rattle unless I'm on really rough roads. They come in sizes to fit various wheels and tires.
https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=srs%3D2600679011%26search-alias%3Dspecialty-aps&field-keywords=long+board
I also have a set of SKS Raceblade Long temporary fenders that I swap from bike to bike.
https://www.amazon.com/Raceblade-Bicycle-Fender-18-23-Tires/dp/B000X5ZKD4/
I'm perpetually tempted to get theses "CRUD RoadRacer MK2" fenders, which attach much like the Raceblades and look pretty sensuous. I've considered buying them internationally, but now that they're distributed in the US I might have to give them a shot.
https://www.amazon.com/CRUD-RoadRacer-MK2-Road-Fenders/dp/B00435NFKA/
clip ons will be your best bet. here you go. sks raceblade wont keep you as dry as full wrap fenders but totally worth the dryness.
also, always wanted to give these a shot...
crud road these were designed for race-bikes turned into commuters, probably would work.
This one works pretty well for the back wheel and is really convenient.
http://www.amazon.com/X-Tra-Rear-Bicycle-Fender-wheels/dp/B000X61N2A/#
Here is the non-mobile link from the comment above
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http://www.amazon.com/Crud-Roadracer-Fender-Set-Black/dp/B00435NFKA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1415554901&sr=8-1&keywords=crud+roadracer
A little delicate but they work and look nice.
I have the SKS longboard fenders on a Sirrus with the same sizes tires as OP and they are awesome. Only negatives are the installation, which is a little complicated, and you need to buy a longer bolt to install the from fender. They provide an assortment of bolts but none are long enough to attach the front fender to the fork.
Ps they are also available on amazon http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00F663XMU
SKS Chromoplastic or Long Board fenders definitely will fit. I have the P50 Long Board on my Marin Muirwoods 29er and it fits around my 42mm tires. The 50 indicates that the outside of the fender is 50mm so you'll need 50mm at the fork and seat stays to clear this one. At the chainstays/bottom bracket it narrows so you need less space there but i don't have a measurement for you.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00F6648XI
If you're worried about sucking it into your front tire, a nice compromise would be a downtube fender. They kind of blend in, and they keep a lot of the spray directly off your engine and you.
Edit:
Just like this one.
SKS Mud-X Front Bicycle Fender https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000X5ZK6Q/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_l7XPDbYN4KVY1
Fenders: these or these
Rack: Axiom Transit
Lights: Front and tail. If you want a rack-mounted tail light: light and bracket.
Helmet: go to your LBS and try on a few. One-size-fits-all helmets are not as comfortable.
Other: I'd also recommend a puncture kit for when the inevitable happens. Tube, tire levers, CO2 inflator and cartridge.
You can get fenders that strap to the frame. ex: https://www.amazon.com/CRUD-RoadRacer-MK2-Road-Fenders/dp/B00435NFKA
That one is good for very narrow clearances.
It does the job for something that's easy to take off and on.
Here it is on Amazon.
Option A that goes against N+1: Crud roadracer 2 fenders and an Axiom Streamliner rack.
Option B: N+1 Cross bike/ light tourer/ randonneur. Unless your stem is slammed on a short headtube race geometry bike you should be able to replicate your current position on a new bike relatively easily. While considering N+1 also consider disc brakes and wider tires.
I like having wider tires, so I bought these SKS brand. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00F6648XI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_U5v.yb6G68N91
Thank you. Planet Bike fenders
If you are thinking about just using guards and no rain suit/change of clothes then you are in for disappointment, I think.
I commuted on my hardtail for a couple of years and I still ride the city in the rain. I think they're pretty good but I definitely needed a change of clothes both because I sweat like crazy and my lower half would get kinda grimy.
I use these SKS fenders. Definitely kept most of the muck off of me.
Front: http://www.amazon.com/Germany-Shockblade-Fender-29-Inch-Bikes/dp/B008ZTLQKQ/ref=pd_bxgy_sg_text_y
Rear: http://www.amazon.com/SKS-X-Blade-Bicycle-Fender-wheels/dp/B008ZTLQUG/
Rain jacket, pants, and booties will make you impervious to rain. Best cheap option is helly hansen. Sure, bicycle specific rain pants are better suited, but they cost >$60.
You should get full fenders. They will keep the spray off your back, and keep your lower legs drier when you aren't in rain pants.
I got some SKS s-blades. Stops the skunk stripe up the back and easy on and off.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B008ZTLR3C/
I've always been a fan of the ol' Beaver Tail.
Getting some clip-on fenders could help a lot. I put this and this on my cross bike and my feet still get soaked but the face splash and back stripe are gone.
I have a Trek 7.2 FX and got Planet Bike Cascadias. Totally worth it.
https://photos.google.com/share/AF1QipNx8GtcmnFCqF_QV3QLETfgbZac1jtRl1i2cGSgmcE9OXs8rt4ztB8pAMg9KT2A5g?key=MkNwV3AzUElRVmEyd01RY0czWlVPUnNaUzlGeUln
Planet Bike Full bike fenders - 700c x 45mm https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00TQ43EXG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_hcPjDbBMB3HH7
Had to trim the front arms, and cut the mounting tab off the back. I used a zip tie for now, will secure it direct to the brake bridge when I eventually have the back wheel off.
Non-mobile: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00F663XMU
^That's ^why ^I'm ^here, ^I ^don't ^judge ^you. ^PM ^/u/xl0 ^if ^I'm ^causing ^any ^trouble. ^WUT?
its the SKS mudguard: https://www.amazon.com/X-Tra-Rear-Bicycle-Fender-wheels/dp/B000X61N2A/ref=sr_1_1?s=outdoor-recreation&ie=UTF8&qid=1486680251&sr=1-1&keywords=SKS+rear+mudguard
AmazonSmile Link: SKS rear mudguard Xtra-Dry 26 inch
^Use AmazonSmile to donate 0.5% of your purchase price to a charity of your choice at no extra cost to you.
SKS P50 Black Chromoplastic... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00F6648XI?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf
Running these on my Topstone with 40c WTB Nanos that measure out at 43mm
amazon. They are made of plastic
This brand they have a front and back but are sold sepereate from what I have seen. Cost me about 50$ when I got my set.
It does twist around when carrying or transporting the bike. When riding it does it's job though, and it costs $18
It's SKS S-Blade Rear Fender for 700c wheels
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008ZTLR3C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_QczyybGC2E0A1
SKS Xtra dry 3
I use one of these for my back wheel when its wet out
Axiom Rainrunner road reflex disc. http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0030KXFLI?pc_redir=1414128136&robot_redir=1
Links to accessories:
Fenders $37: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00TQ43EXG/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Rack $33: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00AA8GFSI/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o06_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Pannier $55: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07FNP4JZ4/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o06_s02?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Headlight $68: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01N4ANAPU/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
http://www.amazon.com/SKS-Raceblade-Bicycle-Fender-Set/dp/B0019JNTLS
On the minimalist side, you can try raceblades.
For full coverage (assuming your bike has clearance and mount points), SKS longboards come in multiple widths. The narrower ones should work with calipers and 23's.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0041X5ZX4/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1
These worked decent for me.
Check out those
SKS S-Blade Rear Fender for 700c wheels https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008ZTLR3C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_OCLQCbY7RVWGP
Mountain bike fenders don't look like commuter fenders, they're more heavy plastic clip-on things:
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000X61N2A
nothing special really
http://www.amazon.com/SKS-X-Tra-Bicycle-Fender-Black/dp/B000X61N2A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1290926211&sr=8-1
Crud Road Racer 2 fenders will probably fit. They're a little difficult to get aligned right without wheel rub, and the bolts/nuts that hold the parts together are complete shit because they're nylon. I replaced them with steel bolts/nuts and it works well now.
I just bought this detachable rear mudguard ($15 on Amazon) about a week ago and so far I love it. It's ugly as sin but damn if it doesn't work like a charm. Super quick and easy to put on/ take off the seatpost. Rode in the rain last weekend for several hours and didn't get a bit of water slung up my back.
I used to live at 2nd and Wharton and would ride my bike to Federal/Elsworth and lock my bike up on the North East corner of Broad and Federal on really snowy days. Right here to be exact. I would lock my back wheel and frame to the staple rack w/ a U-Lock and a shitty cable lock between the front tire and the U-Lock. In the 20 or so times I locked it there the only thing that was stolen was one of these plastic mud guards, because I forgot to take it with me.
Replaced that mud guard with mounted ones and never had a problem. I work from home now, so not really an issue.
I have a revenio 4.0 and ended up getting a set like this of these.
Also, the Revenio is what really got me back into road riding. It's a kick ass steed. I would kill for the full carbon frame set they made this year.