I’ve used SKS race blades for a number of years. They have lasted well after some pretty rough treatment. I often end up leaning bike against mudguard so it gets plenty of use. The people at SKS sent a new version of the Race blades so I’ve put on my Ribble bike.
Ease of Use.
The great thing about these mudguards is that you can take them off and put them on in a matter of a few minutes. If you don’t fancy getting out some tools to fix some heavy mudguards, these are a great option. If you have unorthodox shaped forks, then it might be more difficult to fit, but, the new adapter for aero forks makes this easier than on old model.
They are also very light at under 300grams and aerodynamic.
Suitable for
They are ideal for people wanting to clip on some mudguards to a road bike during a winter. It is ideal for people who don’t have mudguard eyes on their bike or very limited clearance between tyre and back brake.
Extras in New Model
- The new version I’ve been sent offers a little more coverage, courtesy of a clip on flap at the back.
- Also there is an extension for people with aero forks. This makes it easier to fit, a good idea given that many people buying will have aero forks.
- There is also some very thin plastic type covers to help protect the frame. I didn’t bother using on my winter bike. But, if you have a brand new expensive bike, it’s another nice feature to help protect the frame.
- Carbon finish means they will integrate well with most bikes
Limitations
The main limitation is that they mainly protects you. If your riding in a group, people behind you will get some some spray as they are not as long as classic mudguards. But, that is the trade off of using some lightweight clip on mudguards. If you want the full monte mudguards, you will need to dig out the screwdriver. I also have some more extensive mudguards to test SKS Velo 42, but I need to still fit this.
Value for Money
I have bought these mudguards and would do again. At just over £30 they are not cheap, but you save considerable time and effort and have much greater flexibility. They are definitely value for money if your bike fits into that niche of needing some lightweight clip on mudguards.
Alternatives
I tried some Crud Road Racer II, but I struggled to fit on my particular bike. They are more extensive and they offer more coverage, but I found the gap between wheel and mudguard is too narrow and so I gave up using them.
Buying SKS Mudguards
- SKS Mudguards at Wiggle Cycles
- SKS Mudguards at Chain Reaction Cycles
Related
Interesting review. I’ve used them personally however found that the fixings weren’t secure so needed to tape them to the forks and rear stays to stop them bouncing around. They are nopt a patch on full braze on mounted mudguards in terms of coverage however.
The great thing about these tho are that you can use them on a Cyclocross bike as a commuter during the week and take them off for a weekend race!