A fender (also called a mudguard) is an accessory that mounts above your wheels to catch stray water, dirt and debris thrown up while you ride. Fenders are a must-have for many riders, especially those who commute to work or ride frequently in wet conditions. In this blog, we'll walk through the fender basics and how to find the ideal match for our Journey carbon gravel bike frame.
Are you a fender lover or hater?
Some people absolutely love fenders. They allow you to stay drier in wet conditions and if you're commuting they'll ensure you're presentable when you arrive. They can also provide some protection for your components and reduce the amount of maintenance on your bike. A rear full-length fender will prevent anyone riding behind you from getting sprayed in the face, something other cyclists will certainly appreciate!
Others find fenders unnecessary. They'll add weight and decrease your bike's aerodynamic profile. Regardless of how they effect performance, the aesthetic of fenders on a bike isn't for everyone. If you love to ride year-round, don't want to worry about road conditions, and don't mind how they look on your bike, adding fenders can be a fantastic upgrade to your riding experience.
Common types of fenders and how they fit the Journey
Generally speaking, fenders come in two main types: traditional and clip-on.
Traditional fenders
These fenders offer full-length coverage and are typically found on touring bikes, commuters and city bikes. Eyelets built into the frame and sufficient clearance between the frame and wheel are required to fit a set of full-length fenders. Insufficient clearance may result in fenders wobbling or rubbing on your tires.
Our Journey frame has multiple mounting points, including eyelets in key places (the fork crown and the seatstay bridge) for mounting traditional fenders. Tire clearance is typically 40mm for 700C / 650b tires which is a generous number that should provide plenty of options for traditional fenders on the market. As the Journey frame features disc brakes, there's no need to worry about the clearance in between brake calipers.
Clip-on fenders
For bikes without the necessary eyelets (especially modern road bikes) or clearance, clip-on fenders are a great solution. They are versatile and options are available to fit most bikes. Levels of coverage and methods of attachment vary quite a bit among brands and models, so there's a wide variety to choose from.
The seatpost diameter of our Journey frame is 31.6mm. When selecting a rear clamp-on fender, make sure that the mounting brackets will accommodate the seatpost. There are other styles like zip-tied and saddle-mounted fenders that will also fit the Journey frame perfectly.
How to choose the right fenders for your riding?
If you're looking for a high level of protection and your bike has eyelets and 20mm frame clearance, traditional full-length fenders are the optimal choice. Installation can be a bit fiddly and these fenders aren't intended for quick removal, but once set up they're sturdy and rigid. To gain maximum coverage, you can even add a mudflap.
If you prioritize flexibility, a clip-on option may be the better choice. They allow fender mounting and dismounting with ease and are usually tool-free. They also tend to be lighter than traditional fenders.
Another factor to take into account is tire width. A fender at least 8mm wider than the tires it covers will offer the most effective protection.
Bike fenders are not a one-size-fits-all accessory and we hope this blog has been helpful. If you have any questions, please contact us (sales@lightbicycle.com) for more information.
In our next blog we'll be talking about stems, so stay tuned!
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