mud guard/fender ahoy!

matabala wrote:

Noticed a goodly number of road bikes using the rear mud guard/fender
appendage (official name?) during a recent visit in the States. Is this a
growing occurrence where you're riding? What's to account for the increased
popularity if that's the case? Is it niche marketing for the consumer who
can't say no? Is it efficient (cleanliness is, after all, next to godliness
with the faith quotient in the US almighty high)? Have to wonder as I've
yet to spot one here in the old world.


Everyone (sensible) uses them in the UK at this time of year. They add
next to no weight, a little air resistance, but they keep the bike and
the rider much cleaner. For best effect, and dry feet, the front one
needs a long mudflap that reaches to within a couple of inches of the
ground.

Racing bikes tend not to have eyes or clearance for mudguards, but some
people fit Salmon guards using P-clips.