Why are so few bicycles fitted with mudguards as standard?

It was a summer that felt like it might last forever, but autumn - and the damp commute - is just around the corner. Rain needn't be an obstacle to cycling. However, looking at the line-up at bike shops, you'd be forgiven for thinking mudguards are a relic of a bygone era. The weight and aerodynamic penalty is negligible so given how often it rains here, why are so few bikes sold with mudguards fitted as standard?

Whether it's a bike industry ploy to sell accessories, or a fashion for paired-down looking designs, we'd rather avoid the damp and gritty streak up the back of our clothes.

There are many different types of bicycle mudguard to choose from. In the traditional design camp are Bluemels Stingray mudguards from SKS, which feature super-fine aluminium strips embedded in plastic sheathing for added strength and a jaunty lime green colour on their underside to brighten up the dreariest of winter mornings.

If you're not yet won over by the idea of mudguards, why not enter our free prize draw and with a bit of luck you'll get to try them out for free.

Win a set of mudguards

We have a SKS Bluemels Stingray 28 inch mudguard set worth £42 to give away. To be in with a chance of winning, simply leave us a comment at the bottom of the page and we'll pick a name next week.

The ethical choice

The ETA was established in 1990 as an ethical provider of green, reliable travel services. Over 30 years on, we continue to offer cycle insurance , breakdown cover and mobility scooter insurance while putting concern for the environment at the heart of all we do.

The Good Shopping Guide judges us to be the UK's most ethical provider.

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