Fenders or Nah?

[@charleskolthoff785]

I started riding in the late 1940's in the US. All bicycles had fenders and fat tires. By the late 60's I was riding a Raleigh Professional, skinny tires no fenders. The 10-speed craze had started. Speed was the goal. However marriage happened. My wife had the car. I was still in school so I used the bike until conditions became too difficult(Buffalo winters). Riding without fenders sure was messy. Now I'm an old man(79). I still ride and for the last twenty years all my bikes have fenders. For local transportation I ride a Western Flyer(single speed) step-thru(girls). Long rides I have either a Rivendell Atlantis or custom Spectrum. I used to do randonneuring but now most longer rides are under 100 miles. If you are riding off road and crash your fenders take a beating so there is a trade off. My fenders have mud flaps also.

[@TimFitzwater]

Heck yeah! Thanks so much for sharing. So much common sense seems to be coming back around. You've witnessed the whole arc!

[@ArthurFellig]

I want a Fitzwater shirt that says "What is up, everybody?"

[@redline3036]

Or hear me out " do you even fender"

[@grumpycyclist3319]

Edmund on a bike saying "What is up everybody?"

[@mikeroneniner]

For that , I would pony up the crazy postage to the UK these days.

[@TimFitzwater]

Ha! ...and I thought I avoided having catch phrases!

[@ArthurFellig]

@@TimFitzwater The best catch phrases are the ones that come up naturally! You rock!

[@slantedorbit]

Over time I have become a fender snob, I confess it. You can’t be in a hurry when it comes to installing them. I love having a bike with proper permanent fenders, my townie/light touring steel bike. For a college bike I set my son up with a 90s steel full rigid 26er with Velo Orange fenders, Maxxis DTH tires and a CUES 10sp drivetrain. It looks sick yet doesn’t call attention to itself when locked up and he rides it down stairs and all over tarnation rattle free.

[@TimFitzwater]

Excellent. I'm impressed when people do it right.

[@where2then]

Love the way fenders look on trad geo bikes. Always hate actually having them on my bikes but still have a set for each bike hanging in the rafters. My take on the "plastic is quieter than aluminum" for fenders, I would agree if we're talking about road/rail trail kick up. The plastic fenders just seem less resonant to to what tires grab and sling against them. As for rattling, I agree with you, it's the install. I'm happy to help anyone install if they are in NW WV!

[@robbchastain3036]

Tim, you've inspired me to write a letter to my childhood bike, my Schwinn Sting-Ray. I haven't seen it in nearly half a century, I left it in a common storage room in an apartment building in West Germany, but I feel compelled to apologize, so here goes: "Dear Schwinn Sting-Ray, Sorry me and a friend excitedly removed your chrome fenders in 1967, not far from the bike shop in San Francisco where my Dad surprised me with the coolest birthday gift a kid could ever receive. But it was just the times, nobody kept the fenders on their bike and I guess I was just following the crowd. Sorry. You were a great bike for eight years of my childhood and you were always a cool bike, even without your chopper-like fenders." 😀

[@TimFitzwater]

I just saw a photo of the bike I learned on when I was at Thanksgiving - a total Stingray knock off.

[@robbchastain3036]

@TimFitzwater The opening scene in the famous motorcycling documentary "On Any Sunday" shows a bunch of kids having fun on their Sting-Rays and anticipating their futures on off-road motorcycles, years before BMX bikes and mountain bikes were even a thing. For a solid decade, mid-'60s to mid-'70s, the Sting-Ray was everything.

[@10xZ00M]

I devised an early off road hack to deal with our local clay, by replacing mudguard stay securing nuts with wing-nuts; so allowing easy release of mud build up.

[@robtwalicki]

Great video. I can vouch that, having had plastic fenders on my now stolen Disc Trucker and Aluminum Honjos on my Bridge Club, they are both the same loud on the crushed limestone trails of Chicagoland. That said, after a rough first snow outing a few weeks ago - wet snow accumulating between the fenders and tires, fine if I kept pedaling, but would seize when I stopped - I took the fenders off and switched to 29x2.2 Kendas that I got for $20 for the pair in a budget bin at my LBS. At the moment I don't have the luxury of a dedicated snow/winter bike... but maybe I'll explore some of the locals for a frame that fits me. I had to drop that bike off at the shop today and told them to ignore the clearance between the front tire and front fork crown, haha. They totally understood.

[@achn2b]

Have always had a dedicated winter/rain bike with fenders. My last one was a Soma Double Cross Disc that had a set of SKS fenders on it. Last year bought a Giant Revolt gravel bike, and loved riding it so much that when it came to doing rides in the winter or rain, I was always choosing that instead of the Soma. So I sold the Soma, bought a set of the hammered Velo Orange fenders for it, and made that my new winter/rain bike. And bought another Revolt for gravel. I like the aluminum Velo orange fenders. The plastic SKS would always chatter and rattle when going over bumps or railroad tracks, the VO are dead silent. And the fittings on the bike made mounting them up really easy. The other reason I chose them over the Honjo is they were much cheaper, and had most of the holes already pre-drilled, which made install much quicker and easier. Hell, Honjo may even be the ones making them for VO.

[@omanmano3277]

Those blue colored bumpers and huge grey fenders are very gorgeous 😁😁😁!!!

[@WheelcraftBicycles]

Bontrager NCS fenders are my favorite for a no fuss full fender install. $70 and they do their job well. I recommend them.

[@phil_deckrow]

Thank you for sharing your experience!

[@jameselms7342]

Forks and frames without eyelets for mudguards, QR skewers or not, no problem. There are brackets from VO which attach to axel, alternatively make your own version of them that enable removal of wheels using QR as intended. Well fitting / fitted mudguards are worth the effort it takes. Thanks for the video and thanks for reading.

[@stevevanness4195]

The spare down jacket is a great idea, I need to do that! I had one experience with a flat on a particularly clod day and don’t wish to repeat it!

[@TimFitzwater]

It is such a nice piece of security to have with you!

[@andrewkleinhenz8487]

BTW....what a beautiful shop....WOW!

[@TimFitzwater]

Thanks! Bought it for the photography studio - converted the basement into a shop - livestream studio!

[@tristamnewey7118]

Yes to fenders for most rides, good clearance helps for sure but if any off roading on muddy tracks then risk of jamming and breaking occurs - as I found out to my cost! Also in really gritty, sandy trails I find the fenders 'waterfall' grit into the chain. That being said I love them, especially with a set of RAW mudflaps fitted.

[@PRH123]

I rode without them for like 25 years, like a dummy, because I though they didn’t look cool. Then read an article by a guy in Portland, decided to try them, and was absolutely blown away by the result. Have full fenders on my single speed and commuter now, can’t imagine riding without them. Makes me sometimes think back to the old Schwinn typhoon I had as a kid, those bikes had great fenders, and good looking too. What a dummy I was to part with that bike. Bike dummy, that’s what you can call me :)

[@sventice]

I live in the coastal part of the Pacific Northwest, and conditions here are a little unique compared to most of the rest of North America: frequently rainy, but almost never below freezing. With those conditions, fenders just make sense. I ride with full fenders year round; they don't weigh much at all, I think they look kinda cool on many bikes, and they make riding in the rain a LOT more comfortable. I don't use them on hard-core dirt, though, and I would be really hesitant to use them if the snow. (Actually, I don't ride in the snow, since that only happens about once or twice a year anyway.) I totally agree that they are a pain to install, though. You'd think a job like that would be trivial, but it never is.

[@TimFitzwater]

Yeah - they are a must out there it seems to ride through winter. As our weather becomes more like yours it is a big reason I think about them more and more.

[@johnmclean8643]

The down tube mini fenders keep at least one water bottle cleaner ⛈️

[@irenebloodrose3886]

I'm pro-fender! The ol' Ghoulbike Mk. 1 (my electric bicycle) had a plastic pair that came with her but it was a delight riding the Ghoulie Mk 2 (my acoustic bicycle) in the rain and not worrying about the road splash getting on me.

[@robbchastain3036]

Fenders and tri-spoke wheels. Tim is like a deejay on alternative college radio, spinning something we've never heard before. 😀

[@TimFitzwater]

Ha! I try to keep it weird!

[@markday1714]

fenders are only for rain protection. key part of staying happy in the wet, great content !

[@TimFitzwater]

Thanks Mark!

[@the_derpler]

Been a while since I’ve had to ride in snow. Those memories of biking back from temple U in deep snow through N. Philly.

[@TimFitzwater]

Looks like I will be this week. We have had some pretty good flurries but the ground was warm - now we've had nights in the low 20s!

[@christophersmith7703]

I have a commuter bike with the same Planet bike fenders, but I put that in storage for the very reason you mentioned: snow building up between the tire and fender. I have snap-on fenders for my Bridge Club, and I have a single-speed Fairdale Express for my winter bikes.

[@TimFitzwater]

Nice. Yeah - it really depends on local conditions and where you ride as to what will work it seems.

[@pgwphoto]

Not weighing in on fenders although you have some cool ones, I spotted the Speedotron BlackLine 1200ws power pack. I have one too going on 36 years now. It’s a workhorse. I love it!

[@cb6866]

Thanks Tim , and Edmund in cameo . I have bought , and tried a bunch of fenders , I have a box full of em ! The best , and easiest for me were the Ass Savers , quick and cheap .

[@TimFitzwater]

Nothing wrong with the quick and dirty - I mean clean. Edmund was so happy I was down there - he loves when I make videos there.

[@mushroomhill]

4:32 great pic!

[@TimFitzwater]

Thanks!

[@jstar1000]

To me. bikes are like clothes, you do what you wish and what makes you happy, If someone doesn't like it, too bad, its my stuff, kick rocks.

[@TimFitzwater]

Oh for sure. One thing I like about having the channel is I can give my opinions but also get feedback and learn. (of course we get the rare jerk know-it-all but they can be ignored)

[@robertadams-v1i]

that is a relevant point...i've always said that if i'm out and about biking, running, hiking, etc., then i will pay attention to the forecast. if it looks sketchy/compromised-then i will bring the necessary clothing. However, that being said, and to your point....if i get wet, dirty or soaked; i still enjoy it. It comes with the territory. So, yes, bikes are like clothes and your choice doesn't prevent you from your enjoyment. The positive mental approach will carry you thru

[@MZr-k8x]

Thanks for great videos Tim. I would suggest you convert the Raleigh into a full time fendered bike. I think you you could fit 35-38 mm tires in that case and switch between studded and summer tires. That would give you the reason to start looking for a new dedicated gravel bike!

[@TimFitzwater]

Oh man - maybe? I really wouldn't do it if I had to drop down below 40s - I like my wide tires.

[@stevevanness4195]

It’s interesting the difference geography makes when it comes to fenders. It seems everyone in the UK uses them in the winter. I live in New Jersey and commuted 38 miles round trip on a road bike with no fenders (I did use keep a backpack on my aero bars that kept road spray off my gasses) about one day a week for four years and only got caught in any significant rain one time.( my wife did pick me up on the way home once or twice because of rain too) That being said, I have an ebike with full fenders, and love having them when the roads are wet.

[@TimFitzwater]

The UK and the Pacific Northwest - makes sense as it really snows there but is cold and rainy all winter. ....our winters are becoming more and more like that though.

[@thewintersteiner]

12:16 Old Man Mountain sells “strap on” eyelet / mounting kits for their racks that also work well with fenders. Those kits also come with a boatload of washers and spacers.

[@TimFitzwater]

Nice. I'm guessing their stuff is better than some of the non-eyelet fenders - I just find those can be the most finicky and annoying.

[@Cycling_Brian]

I’ve got a commuter rain bike with full time metal fenders. I also have a set of SKS fenders that I can install on my gravel bike, but I usually ride that bike without any fenders.

[@TimFitzwater]

Nice! I just need to bite the bullet and get that old pavement Trek set up permanently. As someone who has ripped three rear DRs off I am still a bit reluctant on the gravel bike.

[@chuckles470s9]

Perfect timing with this video. I grabbed a coda sport Jamis from a yard sale. I want fenders for it and a couple extra mods.

[@TimFitzwater]

Nice! At the least get a clip on - but go for more if you will ride it in any conditions.

[@1Fmarcel]

As a Dane, where it rains a lot, I swear by the full size black plastic fenders configured to the tires width. They work on every surface I can think of, without rattling or getting screwed (almost, fingers crossed). Have tried pretty much every kind of fenders through the years like yourself.

[@TimFitzwater]

Nice. I do think a rando set up with my Honjos on the old Trek road bike make sense. I want to ride to much to keep avoiding the rain.

[@andrew_yeah]

I didn't see anyone comment about your fork - those eyelets are definitely intended for fenders. the brake caliper would get in the way of the traditional mounting point on the fork dropout, so you either have to get crazy and bend the stay or move the attachment point.

[@TimFitzwater]

Nice - thanks and good to know! That is why the stays are bent and I used extra spacers on the Gunnar.

[@JDandy]

I understand your reluctance to fender a bike that is going to see a lot of gnar. I only have experience with the Portland Design Works (PDW) full metal fenders. They come with sliding fender stays which make installation easy (no cutting necessary) and most importantly, break away tabs. I had them on the Gary Fisher and caught a stick going up old AP. I went down but my fender was saved. I just popped the stay back into the tab. However, I have since moved the fenders over to the shopping bike and have decided to use temporary Ass Saver/Win Wing fenders on the Gary Fisher to maximize tire clearance on that bike. With the number of bikes you have, I think you should definitely have a dedicated fender bike. I do think the Trek would be a good candidate. I will definitely have a rando-style bike at sometime in the future and it will be fendered.

[@TimFitzwater]

Yeah - the Trek pretty much would be(is) a rando bike. I need to bite the bullet and do the complicated install on a day where I feel I have patience. As someone who has ripped off three rear derailleurs I know the Gunnar is not the best long term fendered bike - Ratz nights and all!

[@-NateTheGreat]

For my touring bike I have the little plastic fork fender and the rear I used a piece of plastic and made a fender that goes between my rear rack and my bike bag. They work fantastic. I do not want the muddy water stripe of shame up my back.

[@TimFitzwater]

Nice. Why does anyone deal with the stripe up the back! Easiest thing to fix...

[@88woodbikes4]

Pro tip : For the rear fender, leave enough adjustability to drop the wheel should you flat. Unless you have vertical drop outs, (most don’t ), you’ll struggle getting it off. Either leave it wide in back, or carry a small wrench to temporarily widen it on bolted stays.

[@TimFitzwater]

Won't matter on the Gunnar since it is through axel but good point.

[@danielholman7225]

So, Tim, I live State side in the mid west. It can rain a lot in my neck of the woods. I have a Giant and it came w plastic fenders. So far I can’t complain. On my mountain bike there are no fenders. I have what the British call an “ass saver” that “paddle “ like thing you demonstrated (Clips on the seat post). Then more recently I purchased for my mountain bike another paddle like “fender” that clips onto my diagonal front frame post and I like it pretty well - helps keep me dry. Om!

[@TimFitzwater]

Nice. We can't ride out MTB trails here if they are wet so no one really puts fenders on those. I'm the guy who has a full rigid bike that I use for way to many things! Cheers!

[@snodgerbill9111]

The only bike I ride without fenders is my road bike and only when the sun is shining. My gravel and vintage road are both wearing fenders, in the UK it definitely makes it a nicer ride with fenders.

[@chuckhunter77]

I love the SKS Raceblades on my road bike. Easy removability was the selling point for me there. My commuter has permanently attached SKS Velo 65 fenders.

[@TimFitzwater]

Nice. Sounds like a perfect 2 set ups. Why are people afraid to put simple fenders on road bikes?

[@kristamcnamee6029]

Excellent video. Not sure if it was mentioned, but an added benefit of fenders is minimal “rooster tail” to spray into the face of the rider behind you. Having done some self supported tours riding through cattle country in the rain, the roads are a mess. 🚴🏻‍♀️🚴🚴🏾‍♂️🐂🐂.

[@TimFitzwater]

I meant to say that! I do a gravel "race" every year and people love to draft me but I can't draft them back! The race is literally called "Road Apple".😂

[@gs_weiss]

I went with PDW for my Gorilla Monsoon, they were the only 650b x 2.5" I could find and they do look great. I prefer the price point of the planet bike fenders better. I run the PDW's seasonally and have planet bike full fenders all the time on my 90's MTB commuter. I even made a youtube "short" from the installation just for fun.

[@bicycledad7660]

Thank you that was very informative. Stay safe and God bless

[@thewintersteiner]

Highly recommend PDW. Sexy, effective, sturdy metal, tons of options for tires and clearances, modifiable if needed, and they come with a rubber boot. Overall high quality

[@TimFitzwater]

That is what I keep hearing. If I decide to upgrade another bike that would probably be a route I would go.

[@andrewkleinhenz8487]

As a daily year round commuter, I won't ride without full fenders. However, I don't ever ride off pavement....so there's that. I like them. They also protect the frame and cables on my bike. I can see the issues with snow and sticky mud. I think they are so worth it once you get them dialed in.

[@TimFitzwater]

That is exactly why I need a pavement bike set up with them.

[@jonathanbenn2241]

Been riding a Fuji Cambridge flat bars, aluminum fenders, rear rack, kick stand and an 8 speed Nexus hub for 15 years. Commuting is it's primary job, though it's done 5 Boroughs in NYC and several short tours.

[@TimFitzwater]

Cool!

[@Richard-x2h]

Mudguards!! Hard Yes. And size counts.

[@robinheil]

Big fender fan over here. I always get fenders with "safety tabs" that break away when something gets stuck on the tire. Yes, they are annoying AF, but they keep my clothes so much cleaner (and long lasting). I can't be walking around covered in mud, salt, and whatever else is on the ground 🤢 My fenders have a label that reads "not for off-road use" but I don't obey it. Consequently, sticks do get stuck in there, making me have to quickly stop to pull them out. PDW is definitely the best I've tried. Very quiet, durable, and good looking.

[@TimFitzwater]

Nice. I need to look into the safety tabs - I have ripped off three rear DRs which is why I hadn't really thought of fenders on an off-road bike as practical. You guys have way more maintained trails and paths than us too so I would definitely have had them up there.

[@RodMesa-e2t]

My first bike had fenders, and so has every bike since. If the bike didn't have any, like my '71 Campagnolo, I would fit some. I have 3 bikes: road, gravel & mountain. I run the SKS Bluemels Basic fenders on all of them, as they come in various sizes and widths. They are quiet and pretty straightforward to install. No drilling required!

[@TimFitzwater]

Nice. Do you ever worry about picking up stick or are the trails/roads ok for you. ...I have ripped off three rear DRs - thus my trepidations.

[@RodMesa-e2t]

@@TimFitzwater I use the biggest fenders I can fit, regardless of the tire size. No close fit for me. I learned that lesson long ago the hard way. The trails around here are pretty well groomed from years of use. Besides, now in my middle 70s, I don't ride a lot of wild stuff anymore.

[@robertgraves3215]

Here's an idea: the rear Planet Bike on the Gunnar looks fine, nice profile . Good mount job! Just put a MTB style double blade fender on the front , (cue the screams from fashion purists) Mine actually looks kinda gnarly! But I have like 6" of precious clearance. So there.

[@TimFitzwater]

I mean - makes sense but the fenders were free so they are either on or off for this bike....

[@robertgraves3215]

@@TimFitzwater You could actually survive with just the rear for awhile ... (spitting salt).

[@johnyork6955]

I just installed a pair of SKS Beavertails on my winter bike. I will say that I should’ve installed them a long time ago. They’ve been a game changer in the snow so far:)

[@TimFitzwater]

Nice!

[@mitmon_8538]

I've fendered a couple bikes with carbon forks and the inside eyelets. I've only done it with metal fenders that just have the single stays with metal P-clamps; never done it with the plastic ones like you have on the Gunnar. Like you said, it's a pain to install, but I do fenders on bikes that will never/rarely see gnarly stuff, so they never come off. I love the look of fenders, so I'm weird in that way.

[@TimFitzwater]

I don't think it is weird - they look good in many, may cases. Good to know it does work on the carbon forks. It isn't even really the rough stuff - but the non-cleared trails with sticks and branches. I don't think it would be a problem on gravel or even single track - but I've ripped off three DR's riding the "unofficial trails".

[@labertablido8271]

PDW full metal fenders 👍🏾… I have over 20000 plus miles and run them year round. Been in a few crashes and they have held up great. TeamFenders✊🏾

[@TimFitzwater]

Nice.

[@niclubbers]

I only have one bike, a gravel bike, that I use for everything including commuting. I got some SKS Speedrockers so I can take them on/off easily. My only complaint is that the sliding extension on the rear fender doesn't go down the seat tube far enough so I ended up making an extension from a small water bottle. It's not ideal, but it works. I may get some Musguard's for something that's smaller and easier to deal with if I'm bikepacking or not sure whether or not I'll need them. If I had a dedicated commuter bike I'd consider something more permanent but for now that's not an option.

[@TimFitzwater]

Yup - a dedicated commuter or extra bike makes the decision easy. I feel the easier it is to take full fenders off and on makes them a little less stable... which is why clip ones are popular.

[@kevinfettes4839]

Portland Design Works is the name you were searching for.

[@robertgraves3215]

Excellent talk . Point taken on the snow and ice / tree branch cloggage issue on the hardcore gravel bikes . (Oh the rattling.) On my daily beater, I just run these high-quality Hua Shuang (lol) MTB types that I got pre-covid for SEVEN BUX!! (amazon lol) Had to modify them though, because the chinese just don't understand MTB's. The Rear is similar to your rig on the Raleigh, just way shorter and cheesier . My plastic/alloy history: Planet Bike for road, 27 X 1 1/4" Perfectly otay, No complaints. I just hate their other products: rear blinker and helmy lights. SUCK! Avoid. Continental Race Blades: Absorbed a full day of my life , but I was really impressed once finally dialed in. Oh, but then I took them off, as I broke down yet another bike , soo.. I LOVE how they are unclippable . Brilliant! So the Germans rock the plastic. And it's decent Germanic soda bottle polymer . Of course, they are now double price. For 20.00, more you can get Pseudo French angelic VO's. (I have not seen the PDG's yet thanks on that, noting... Interesting. ) As mentioned before , these can be fucking excruciating, But the hardware is awesome, just *don't try to install a stay under tension*, or you will strip the well forged 7 dollar nut/bolt. I say put those sexy old frenchies you got for free on that new Moto , ermegherd . Go full Rivendell, with, like, the cool front handle bar rack. Coffee shop winner. Other notes: Yeah, maximum clearance for , say the Gunner, I don't think the ice/snow crankage this year will be that bad , but the jury is out , having just seen footage of 3 foot snows... I'm telling you, we're all gonna die. Get a snowmobile. Shit jamming in your front = death . 50/50 if a rear jam. Grind to a halt , like fuck, shit. Hopefully that won't happen at a crosswalk. In front of the pub. They will all laugh at you. I vote for a padded dry bag backpack for this winter , It's gonna be brutal. If you do an endo your precious SONY A-5 will be so fucked. Well , see you in three weeks after you fender-up. Sigh. I maintain clients will give you serious street cred if you maintain your appointments through this shit. I have been studying the weather really hard , especially the UP

[@robertgraves3215]

Today I will hide my cut down snow brush in the bushes outside . It's a windshield brush that has the scraper removed and the head is shortened to about 6". So the bikes at least get the slush off before they even come inside. I also strap it to the rear rack to brush down at the beer store or coffeeshop .

[@jonathanzappala]

I love my velo orange fenders. I got a new problem now, I got 40mm tires and they don’t fit 😂. I have to figure something else. I also made some out of kydex for another bike that went over the caliper brakes so I could keep on the biggest tires I could fit in them. Now that is a job that takes a lot of hours, heat molding a sheet of plastic.

[@TimFitzwater]

Dang - that sounds interesting! (maxing out tire clearance is definitely a problem for me.

[@davidwebb2337]

Nah. Been riding all the bikes in all the weather for decades. Totally respect your view and a fun vid. I know the pros but I guess I’m just used to skunk butt. Always love bike talk. I always go for warm - let the wet be wet. Keep it up!

[@TimFitzwater]

Not even a clip on? I will never understand that.... What about the guy/girl behind you?! Cheers!

[@davidwebb2337]

@ I know, I don’t have a great explanation. I actually ride alone mostly unless racing which I do 4or 5 per year in which case fenders wouldn’t make sense? I guess between set in my ways and riding alone it’s ok. As an aside, I try to keep bike gadgets manageable but I am riding with a radar(varia) which I love. I syncs with my wahoo which I think you use.

[@TimFitzwater]

I didn't like the radar - but I tend not to ride a lot of country roads alone. I do get why people like them.

[@robertkerner4833]

I have a full time commuter/rando rig that has fenders 100% of the time. You’d be astonished how much crap they keep from getting on the frame and drivetrain. Only drawback I’ve experienced is on rough roads or hopping a curb you can sometimes snag the lower edge of full coverage fenders.

[@TimFitzwater]

Definitely seems worth being cautious on some curbs to have the coverage on a commuter. That is why I should get the Honjo's onto the Trek.

[@paulmcknight4137]

Fenders keep road water from splashing up into the seat tube and pooling in the bottom bracket. The front fender keeps water out of the headset lower bearings. Rider gets 2 thirds less wet from clean fresh rain, not road grime. Fenders don't slow you down. They even might have an aerodynamic effect. SKS plastic fenders if mounted with enough tire clearance don't rattle, and scrub off road debris. They do vibrate, eventually break, and have to be replaced.

[@philiprayner]

a bike with fenders is perfect when touring

[@Old_Dirt]

Definitely recognize the blue tape on those French fenders. Looks like we have a mutual friend.

[@TimFitzwater]

Just saw your message!

[@ma_rin_49]

Fenders 👍 or mudguards as we call them here in Wales.

[@TimFitzwater]

I love hearing the British make fun of our "Fendoooor" pronunciation.

[@jameshuggins4300]

I just put full fenders on my newest bike. I've yet to need them but we'll see. 😁

[@TimFitzwater]

Nice!

[@lelohp]

There's nothing better than when you're at work with your bike and then rain starts and ends before you leave. But nothing is sadder than this happening and you not having fenders.

[@klunkébikes]

I spent ages trying to set up some Velo Orange fenders on a commuter bike I built up for a friend. I ended up having to bring it to a bike shop to deal with because I got so frustrated with the fenders rubbing against the tires since the clearance was so limited (42mm Gravel Kings with fenders which supposedly accommodate 45mm tires, but not with my frame). I use clip on plastic fenders on most of my bikes. I have the same one you showed with the strap but I find the ones that have a mechanism which screws on to the seat post (Zefal for example) are better at staying in position, though slightly slower to swap between bikes. The Zefal front fender which clips on to the frame ain't bad as a one-size-fits-all front option. On my DIY e-bike I have a one and then an Ass Savers "Fendor Bendor" (which is a foldable design but I never fold mine) mounted to the seat tube, so the seat stays end up giving it extra support. Works great and weighs nothing.

[@TimFitzwater]

Sounds like we have run a similar spectrum. They are worth it in most iterations it just depends on what you want to deal with...

[@donnydread7631]

🙏🏻

[@davidjfife]

I like the idea of a fender bike. Need to tell the wife I need one more bike. Lol. I’m running the Portland Design Works (PDW) metal fenders on my two tandems. They stay on all year, along with front and rear racks. Gravel rides can get a bit annoying with the rock - metal sound. But with the ReneHerse tires they don’t kick up as my as the Gravel Kings. On my ATB, I just put my ReneHerse full fenders back on for winter. Those were a full day install for me. Had to drill holes, etc. How do you like studded tires? I’m thinking of trying a set this winter. I just don’t want to be done riding.

[@TimFitzwater]

Very nice. I love the studded tires - there are so many times I would not ride if I didn't have them. Mine are a little more commuter style - 45 Nrth Gravdals.

[@Take2wheels]

Tim, do you have any videos planned on alternative bars? I want to switch my Raleigh Rx2.0 cross to MTN shifters and brakes for a more upright position for mostly flat adventures and to lessen the back strain. I'm looking for some tips on bars and others changes. Always appreciate your content!

[@TimFitzwater]

Thanks! I actually have a few - if you go to my channel and just type "bars" in the search they will come up(I just checked). Sweep, bars, Corner bars, utility bars and the Velo Orange Happy stem are the gear I have.

[@Mike-vd2qt]

Old fart here, 71, crossed U.S. three times with fenders on touring bikes. Positive: If the roads are slightly wet, light drizzle, fenders help a little. Negatives: You will be dodging every piece of trash, sticks, and dead critters on the shoulder and that is stressful; if you are bombing downhill and a plastic grocery bag is blowing toward you, stop immediately because that bag suck into your fenders, Murphy's Law; when you come across a rail trail after a rain storm the mud and leaves will build up under your fenders; when it is raining hard you will get soaked anyway but your fenders will cleaned out; when it is raining hard you will sit at the gas station, cafe, bar, or coffee shop for hours anyway because it is dangerous to ride due to driver visibility; finally, I have seen it happen two times when a cyclist hit a stick and it popped up under the front fender, over the bars went the rider. If you live in Amsterdam, Portland, Seattle, a city with fine drizzle, and you are commuting to work in dress clothes less than two miles, then ok, fenders make sense. Otherwise, nope. Happy trails!☮

[@TimFitzwater]

Interesting take - thanks. I do feel with the amount of bikes I have it would still be worth having something set up with the permanent ones. Leaning against having them on the daily drivers I mentioned. Cheers!

[@ianlinsey1133]

I have used Cateye rear tail light fixed size clamp band when there are no eyelets, they come in several diameters.There is an adjustable band model as well but I cannot vouch for those as I have not used them.

[@TimFitzwater]

Thanks.

[@lindenmoore]

QR fenders would be cool-mounts that stay on the bike and let you quickly attach or detach the fenders with a push-button mechanism. When it’s raining, you could clip them on, and when conditions change, like chunky snow, you could just as easily take them off. Does something like this already exist? Haha, and honestly, anytime the idea of going ultra-light crosses my mind, I remember that I’m morbidly obese.

[@TimFitzwater]

I know there are some attempts at this. It seems the problem can be the easier they are to get on and off the more rattle-y and finicky they can be. But I'm sure that could be solved. In the latest Pathless Pedaled video there is a bike in the background with a kind of fender I've never seen - looks like it might be something quick but full. We shall see.

[@howiehammer]

Full coverage aluminum fenders and big mudflaps keeps everything cleaner and dryer and the drivetrain lasts longer. Wieght and esthetics are not an issue. I'm a practical recreational rider.

[@TimFitzwater]

The weight is marginal and the aesthetics are nice! Cheers!

[@vze2gsgr]

Absolutely. I'll take a Fender Strat or a Tele over any other guitar any day.

[@Wannaridebikes]

I have a old specialized stump jump steel frame. I put the fenders on that. It was planned for a bike trip. But life happens and that trip did not happen. But will this year coming up

[@TimFitzwater]

Good luck - I hope it works out!

[@Wannaridebikes]

@ yeah. I hope so to thanks

[@Wannaridebikes]

@@TimFitzwater I got my planet bike fenders new from a second hand store bike parts. I paid 3.99 for the set. I could not pass that up

[@robertalmeida3180]

Tim, two thumbs up on the weight thing! Ya, look in the mirror, a few grams bolted on doesn't matter.

[@TimFitzwater]

Yeah - people get so silly. (or have just been so brain washed my marketing)

[@glennpettersson9002]

I put mudguards on my commuter because of the amount of grit being dropped onto the BB in winter.

[@TimFitzwater]

Yup - makes total sense.

[@kge420]

Road bike, no fenders as I don’t ride on the road in the rain Trail bike, fenders

[@TimFitzwater]

Makes sense.

[@jeffreythree]

I have a never bothered with full fenders, but don't live where they would be helpful. I have a Ass Saver Win Wing that is easy to pop on whatever bike I ride when it is wet to prevent 'skunk stripe'.

[@TimFitzwater]

Makes total sense to have at least that.

[@KenBerger-ey2pg]

Fenders!

[@pondacres]

I'm a strictly dry weather rider, hence no need for them.

[@thetimcannon]

I think you should get a sound byte for everytime you have to mention weight based on comments (Similar to the horses and Frau Blücher). BTW, I am team fender.

[@TimFitzwater]

😂📯

[@rockeastwood]

Body Shamer! lol. They look cool. I'd like to wear them -- but I just don't want to deal with finding the right size, installing. If a magic bicycle fairy told me what to buy & said fairy would do the work, I'd go for it. But Alas, not happening. I'll just stay dirty. I might look into the easy back fender though. Never though about it. Thanks.

[@TimFitzwater]

Get a clip on fender!!! No reason to have a wet ass!

[@paulaspinall919]

Fenders aka mudguards. Three bikes. Most used two are fully fendered. Why? I prefer to stay clean. I don’t mind when it is pouring with rain ‘cos I only get wet and just need to hang up my outer gear to dry out. Most people I ride with have no fenders and when it is wet they are filthy at the end of a ride. They have to wash everything every time. Most riders without fenders can be recognised by their washed out faded clothing. Also, DON’T ride behind an unfendered bike as you just get filthy and get grit in your eyes. None of my bikes are speed machines they are just as I like them. Over the last 18 months I have lost 1.5 stones. I wonder how much that would have cost to lose off my bike?🥳

[@TimFitzwater]

I meant to mention how at least a clip on fender should be a common courtesy on a group ride. So frustrating to have people draft you and you can't do it back!

[@30bones]

Used to be all about fenders. Now only my fat bike has the simple removable ones

[@TimFitzwater]

Any main reason for the switch?

[@30bones]

@ mainly they always seemed to need fiddling with to keep out of the tires. Also a pain with certain platform racks. Still have them, rarely bother. Only time I really care about getting wet is cold winter slush

[@everydaycycling67]

Koga Miyata is a dutch brand not French. Nice video!

[@TimFitzwater]

It’s a Japanese bike. I said one of my French bikes or my single speed commuter. Cheers!

[@everydaycycling67]

@ No, its Real Dutch Brand Koga Miyata, coperated wit a Japanese parts. Ko Gaastra it means.

[@everydaycycling67]

@ Koga-Miyata is a Frisian company that builds bicycles in Heerenveen. The name refers to a half exotic - half Dutch background. Miyata was a Japanese gunmaker. In his factory came foreigners asking him to repair their frame. In 1892, he realized that the beautiful round tubes he used for arms production with a peaceful purpose could have a bigger future in Japan. He was going to build bicycles with it. Koga is an abbreviation of the surnames of Andries Gaastra and Marion Kowallik. In 1974 Andries left Batavus and started for himself. As a base for his bikes he used frames from Miyata, or his own designs that he had built by Miyata and assembled in Friesland. In 2010, the bond with the Japanese was broken, at least in the name.

[@JDandy]

Also, I’d say as a “general rule,” don’t bother with permanent fenders on a bike with knobby tires. Save them for the commuter/ mostly road bike and stick with strap-ons on the bikes with knobby tires.

[@TimFitzwater]

100%

[@bah5310]

Fenders, yeah. If you're not the smartest guy in the room that leaves Edwin.

[@TimFitzwater]

Smart as a whip that guy!

[@michaelhayward7572]

Hummed and harred (is that even a word?) for years now about fenders (mudguards in Queen's English), but never taken the plunge. I just ride too much dirt road to think its practical. They would have to be Berthoud or VO shiny metal ones if i ever bought them, i just cannot have plastic on my bicycles, nor motorcycles, and they would look fantastic on my Riv-Monkey. Getting wet myself has never bothered me as its never cold here, the benefits are the clean drive train. Oh and the looks, i concur, good fitting steel fenders can look fantastic on the right bike. Good vid, keep up the good work.

[@TimFitzwater]

Thanks! Yeah - if it isn't cold getting wet isn't a big deal to me. I don't worry about getting wet in the summer. We have a long cold and wet season though....

[@patrickshaunhiggins8027]

fenders r a topic

[@TimFitzwater]

they are

[@tomopie4296]

To ebike or not to ebike? Your take

[@TimFitzwater]

Mine has fenders

[@robertgraves3215]

Oh and sorry, but I cringed pretty hard when someone filed the rear stays on the Raleigh. Never ever do that. Ok whatever, Beavis, go ahead and do that. Nobody ever listens to meeee...

[@TimFitzwater]

He didn't do that part on purpose - that is from the rubbing. He filed the fork.

[@robertgraves3215]

@@TimFitzwater OMG not the carbon fork!!!

[@robertgraves3215]

@@TimFitzwater This man changed my life kzbin.info/www/bejne/p2GmqZ9trdunb7c