If you're really strapped for cash
(Photo from makezine.com)
Bicyclists typically aren't phased by a little shower during springtime rides. But there's nothing worse than pedaling a stream of water directly into the rear of your pants.
If, like me, you biked to work yesterday morning in breezy sunshine only to watch the weather turn drizzly, heading home was probably less uncomfortable if you already own fenders.
If you're committed to riding rain or shine, bike fenders are probably a worthwhile investment. When it's actively raining, they'll stop that water stream from reaching your back. But on a daily basis, fenders protect you and your clothing from residual moisture and road grime.
Most bicycles designed for commuting feature built-in fenders. Lightweight bikes designed for speed and agility do not. And hybrids falling somewhere in the middle can be hit-or-miss.
Don't immediately run out and buy just anything. Examine your bike: Where will you attach them? Is there a place to bolt in fenders? Many road bikes don't have mounting eyelets. How much coverage do you want? Consider why you ride, too. Commuters may be OK sacrificing weight for better dryness, but speed warriors may not.
Luckily, there's a broad range of fenders out there. If you're sick of having a soggy butt, check out some choices:
Basic and Cheap
* Clip-ons and flippers, like the ones from Planet Bike will shield your bum, and not much else.
* A $20-and-under price tag means you can still afford to eat.
* Many snap on and off quickly, so you can change them with the weather.
* Pros: Cheap and removable. Cons: Limited protection, flimsy.
Comprehensive Coverage Without Commitment
* Raceblade mudguards from SKS Germany are ideal for road bikes with tire size 700x18-23. These are the ones I use.
* Adjustable rubber snap attachments = tool-free installation.
* They're removable, so you won't be stuck with them on a dry 100-miler this weekend.
* Made of sturdy plastic and light, so even hardcore cyclists will hardly notice them.
* Pros: Dual-tire coverage, removable, lightweight. Cons: Pricier, tricky to achieve the right fit.
Rain? What Rain?
* Mounted fenders provide the most reliable coverage, especially ones that run along the entire top semicircle of the wheel.
* Metal fenders bolted to your bike won't shift around or rub against the tires.
* Plenty of manufactures supply these varieties. But for a custom fit, head to The Dutch Bike Company in Somerville, where Dan Sorger will hook you up with some serious chrome.
* Pros: Sturdy, best chance at staying dry. Cons: Not removable, heavy, can be expensive.
It's finally warm enough in New England to get out there on a daily basis, whether it's a five-mile ride to work or 50 miles on hills. Don't let a little rain dissuade you from getting in the saddle as often as possible.
Now if only there was a simple solution for fighting head winds.
Comments
Regarding fenders, I am someone who has purchased the most expensive kind discussed. I got them from Dutch Bikes in Somerville, about whom Jen wrote an article for the almost-late Globe. The engineer (they profess to have an engineer, rather than just a parts exchanger) Paul "massaged" them onto the bike. That involved a bit of work since it was a road bike that was not made to add fenders too.
The first thing I noticed was how cool they look. I wish I could post a picture of my bike on here to show how the fenders are rooted to the axles.
Second, the work awesome. They got me clean through a sandy Boston winter.
Like Dan Sorger says, Dutch Bikes is the place to go when you want stuff done right. No imitations, no corners cut. Not cheap, though 70 wasn't bad for the fenders.
Got something to say?
Examiner.com is looking for writers, photographers, and videographers to join the fastest growing group of local insiders. If you are interested in growing your online rep apply to be an Examiner today!