The environment can be pretty harsh on your bike when you are riding around town or on the beach. Sand, rain, grime, and other elements can potentially deteriorate your beach cruiser. This is where fenders can come in handy.
Why you need fenders
Some riders are hesitant about investing in fenders because of the way they look. However, fenders provide advantages that will protect you and your bike. Here’s why you should consider buying some good fenders.
Fenders help protect your bike from the elements of weather. You will certainly be glad that you have fenders when it starts to rain. It will shield you from mud and water spray.
When riding your cruiser on the beach, fenders will prevent your wheels from kicking up sand. You won’t have to worry about sand hitting your eyes and disrupting your vision. It will also help to keep your shorts and pants clean.
Fenders will not only protect you but also help to maintain the overall hygiene of your bike. You bike chain and brakes will be better protected, which can increase the lifespan of your cruiser.
Types of Fenders
There are a few different types of fenders that you can purchase for your beach cruiser. Here is a list of the various kinds of fenders. The kind you buy will be based on your preference, riding, style, and desired protection.
Full fenders
Full fenders provide the most protection because they hang over a large portion of your wheels. These types of fenders are also the most durable.
I found these beavertail fenders on Amazon to be some of the best you can get online. They fit almost every bike and are easy to install.
Partial fenders
If you don’t plan on riding your cruiser in bad weather or through mud then partial fenders are perfect for you. The partial fenders are small and compact which makes them great if your cruiser can not accommodate full fenders.
Partial fenders do not cover the entire wheel and thus do not provide the same amount of protection. Seat post fenders are typically partial fenders. Check out this cheap partial fender I found on Amazon which attaches to your saddle post. It is an easy snap-on installation and can be folded to a compact size when not using.
Front and Rear Guards
Maybe you only need fenders for one side of your bike. There are plenty of front and rear guards to choose from. They easily clip on to your bike frame. These are also known as clip-on guards.
The main job of front and rear guards is to protect you and your bike from dirt and grime, which is kicked up by your wheels. Something like these rear mudguards I found on Amazon would be a good investment for your beach cruiser.
Mud Flaps
Mud flaps will add to the amount of protection that your fenders already provide. You actually install mud flaps to the base of the rear and front fenders. I found these mud flaps online at Amazon that work both as front and rear flaps This extends the protection to reduce the amount of dirt and grime that hits your bike frame, chain, and your body.