Fenders for a bicycle 29 inches: what are and how to choose?

The presence or absence of wings on a bicycle is one of the most controversial topics for cyclists. Many say that they are completely unnecessary, as they violate the aerodynamic properties of vehicles. The rest of the cyclists argues that in our country can not do without this accessory. Consider the wings for a 29-inch bike, what they are and how to choose.

First you need to find out why this product is needed. Its main purpose is to keep your “iron friend” and you clean and dry after the trip. Recently, however, bicycle wings have been created to give vehicles a more stylish and elegant look.

Before choosing wings you need to know the size of your wheel. It always varies, but basically the indicator is in the range from 20 to 29 inches.

Now take a look at a number of features of the 29-inch wings.

• Minimum wheel diameter - 26 inches. On smaller wheels, such wings will look ugly and can greatly interfere with riding.
• It is best to put these models on bicycles mountain type with wide wheels.
• The accessory should not interfere with driving, cling to parts and be loose.

Looking at the different types of wings, They can be classified according to several factors.

• The material of manufacture. Here we can note steel, which is distinguished by strength and high weight.Aluminum is lighter than steel models, but is rare and expensive. Another option is plastic. It is relatively inexpensive, but is also rare.
• Way of fastening. There are quick and stationary wings. But you can also find "exotic" or home-made versions of the wings and their types of attachment. It is worth noting that the front and rear are mounted a little differently.
• Sizes. Short specimens are most often made from lightweight and ergonomic materials that least affect the aerodynamics of vehicles. Long models are usually made of various kinds of metals. They are able to cover most of the circumference of the wheel and pick up a lot of dirt on themselves.

Among the variety of the assortment, the best models can be distinguished that meet all the requirements and are not so expensive.

This is a model of road bike racing wings with minimal clearance and extended protection. Accessory design traditionally durable, bolted to the brake axles, and the main arch is made of metal. Such production standards have not changed for several years and give a positive result, which users note. Recommended tire width is 25-30 mm.

A set of wings that fit quite tightly to the tire and stably protect the driver from dirt. It is worth noting that protection extends to the front brakes, which are also protected by the wing. The kit is made of plastic and weighs just 330 grams. Brand verified by SKS (Germany). Suitable for wheels 28-29 inches. After the purchase, I would like to put a positive assessment on the product.

Universal front fender suitable for mountain bikes with 26, 27.5 or 29 inch wheel diameters. An additional soft spoiler is installed at the end of the wing, which improves the protection of the racks from minor damage. The width of the wing is 60-73 mm. Stylish appearance and matte black color make the user to buy. Zefal - The manufacturer is very famous in the field of production of bicycle accessories.

When buying this accessory, you should definitely know that it has both positive and negative properties, which will now be considered.

Let's start with the virtues.

• Wings (especially full-size and metal) look great on a device with wide tires. They give the transport a certain “zest”, make its appearance much better and more elegant.
• Protecting the driver from external influences - dirt, water.

Unfortunately, of the pluses - that's all. Deficiencies found a little more.

• Excess weight, which can become critical for those who seek to win extra seconds. Lightweight plastic wings make almost no sense in buying (they will quickly break), while metal wings weigh quite a lot.
• The aerodynamic properties of the bike are significantly reduced. On ordinary trips, this means practically nothing, but a professional athlete may lose a second at the start.
• Weak defense which will not save you from rain, snow and other weather conditions.
• Most wings have weak mountsthat can withstand a normal ride, but skiing in hilly areas, most likely, will not tolerate.

Buying wings is a snap (with the right skills), but the place of purchase of this accessory plays an important role.

• Sports shops. Yes, in ordinary sports stores, there are almost always bicycle wings in stock. However, it is better to buy here only as a last resort - trust specialized stores.
• Online stores. The most affordable and common option. The choice here is quite large, there is no need to go anywhere, and the prices are not high.But the quality can be both good and not very good.
• Bicycle shops. In such stores, fakes are foolish to expect. The prices here are “standard”, as the store is still specialized and official.

Choosing any wings It is worth considering several important criteria that will help make your choice the right one.

• Manufacturer. Before buying, you should pay attention to the quality of the product itself and the manufacturer. Professional cyclists prefer foreign companies that create really high-quality products, the use of which practically does not affect the characteristics of your vehicle.
• The diameter of the wheels and wings. It is important to know that 29-inch wing models are suitable for wheels from size 27 to 29 inclusive. In other cases, they will interfere, rather than bring any benefit.
• Design. Not such an important factor, but it must be taken into account. Remember that you can find quality and stylish wings. Riding in open areas, you will attract the attention of people, and also look with pleasure at your "iron horse". Fortunately, the assortment in the modern world is very wide, so finding a suitable model will not be difficult.
• Material. In fact, there are 2 main types of wing material: plastic and metal. The first is convenient in that it has little effect on the aerodynamic properties of a bicycle. The second - often looks more attractive (due to its metallic luster), but greatly spoils the aerodynamics of the device.

See the video for an overview of the 29-inch bike wings.