Bicycle Mechanics - fenders for a hybrid

Hi all,

Several weeks ago, I purchased a Giant Cypress hybrid for my wife. She loves the bike, and we try to ride together on the weekends or in the evenings after work as often as we can.

We were riding on some trails this weekend, the day after a rainstorm. She hit a few puddles and ended up with the telltale 'mudpuddle stripe' up her back. Naturally, she asked me if I could fit some fenders on her bike.

I've been looking at some 45mm SKS/ESGE fenders. I like the looks of them, and they are the right width for the 38mm tires on her bike. But I'm wondering if the front fender will work with her front fork suspension.

Has anyone installed these fenders on a similar bike with a front fork suspension? Will they work? If not, would anyone have any suggestions regarding a full fender set for this bike?

Thanks
-dj

I have done this on a front suspension bike, 700x38 tyres, used narrow SKS mudguards just a fraction wider than the tyres (may be they are 45mm, will measure later) with the theory that the mud and water is thrown from the centre of the tyre. Works well. I added a mud flap to the front cut from a drink container, very thin and flexible, attached to the inside with 1 small nut and bolt - the curvature keeps it aligned vertical but it can swing under duress. The mudguard is very light and does not seem troubled at all from the movement of the suspension, and I suspect that the forces involved are no different from a rigid fork.

They are 45mm mudguards, one modification was needed - the front mounting bracket is made for attaching to the back of the stem, it needed repositioning to fit behind the horseshoe fork brace. I made an aluminium bracket that doubled as a reflector holder and pop riveted it further forward on the mudguard. http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2006-4/1175851/mdgrd.jpg

Thanks all for the input. I found some SKS fenders at the local sporting goods store (50mm), and installed them on the bike this weekend. It took me around an hour, and the only modification I had to make was a hole drilled through the rear fender to accept a mounting bolt into a threaded hole between the seat stays. Otherwise, it was like the fenders were made for this bike.

The bike just looked naked without fenders. Now with a Wald handlebar basket, the bike is functioning and looking just about right.

Thanks!