Really enjoying my new fenders
02-23-20, 10:26 AM
#1
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Really enjoying my new fenders
About 5 months ago I installed a set of Portland Design Works fenders on my FX. This is one of the smartest things I've ever done. My bottom bracket and front derailleur stay incredibly clean. Although I don't live in a very wet area, the dirt and sand that would usually get kicked up into that area, and stick, has been reduced to almost nothing. I really like this because I'm kind of fanatical about keeping my bike clean and the front derailleur always required some de-greaser, a toothbrush and 15 minutes in order to fully clean.
I'm not taking these off when the spring gets here. They're staying on!
I'm not taking these off when the spring gets here. They're staying on!
02-23-20, 12:00 PM
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02-23-20, 12:14 PM
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About 5 months ago I installed a set of Portland Design Works fenders on my FX. This is one of the smartest things I've ever done. My bottom bracket and front derailleur stay incredibly clean. Although I don't live in a very wet area, the dirt and sand that would usually get kicked up into that area, and stick, has been reduced to almost nothing. I really like this because I'm kind of fanatical about keeping my bike clean and the front derailleur always required some de-greaser, a toothbrush and 15 minutes in order to fully clean.
I'm not taking these off when the spring gets here. They're staying on!
I'm not taking these off when the spring gets here. They're staying on!
02-23-20, 03:18 PM
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The only thing about the aluminum fenders that gets to me is when a little rock or something like that flings up and hits the fender... I makes a sound like a spoke just broke or something like that.
PDW offers a few different mounting brackets on their site. I actually had to buy and use one of them since the stock front mounting bracket wasn't long enough.
PDW offers a few different mounting brackets on their site. I actually had to buy and use one of them since the stock front mounting bracket wasn't long enough.
02-24-20, 10:13 AM
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they keep my water bottle tip clean too! I was on the fence my 1st summer w/ fenders but was lazy & kept them on. didn't even notice them. plus who needs the hassle of removal & re-installation. although once we get everything set such as the stay length & assorted hardware. simple removable & installation shouldn't be as intense. but yeah, keep them on!
side note, when I thought I was selling my FX, I removed everything, including the fenders. but then I kept the bike & started riding it w/o fenders. so far, no tragedy. I like this bike for summer rides w/ Wifey & summer vacation w/ my adult kids, where I won't need them. not selling the fenders tho!
the few winter rides over snow, ice & slush were bearable w/o the fenders. mostly due to the winter gear I had on my feet & legs
but totally know what you mean about keeping that front der clean!
02-25-20, 09:26 AM
#7
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Fenders do bring a lot of benefits, but I have never liked their looks. None of them. Clean clothes/shoes and non-stuck FD far outweigh the ugliness though, still I'll pull them off as soon it gets dryer.
02-26-20, 07:54 AM
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02-26-20, 08:01 AM
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I really like the full coverage of these fenders. This is my "less than 30 mile" bike ride bike. I use it when visiting friends and the quick short trip down to the beach or the park. It usually gets a good wipe down after every ride. After each ride I try to super-clean one specific part. That is why I like these fenders, the amount of time I have to spend cleaning my FD and BB area has been reduced to almost nothing.
I do not fear puddles any more.
I do not fear puddles any more.
02-26-20, 08:27 AM
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