I never use fenders as they have a tendency to get fouled up with wheels and gears with the vibration of our rough roads. Plus I am going to get wet in any case so why bother for the 200 days a year it is going to persist down (And that is even with the drought conditions we are experiencing over here--I am up to my ankles in drought already)

But as soon as possible after the ride I wash it down.Would be a hosepipe but they are banned in our drought conditions. Then the Ubiquitous WD40 or something similar over the whole of the drive chain and anything else made of steel. Cables are released and WD sprayed down them and left released till later. In fact on the Ally bikes I spray the whole bike and just keep the WD away from the saddle- Brake blocks- bar tape and tyres. Chain is put through the cleaning device aswell with an extra rinse of WD.

I Then shake and leave for a couple of hours- Or days if no time to sort then. Then when I do re-assemble the bike- I use a rag to wipe the frame etc and DRY chain lube down the cable inners and to lubricate the Bearings on the Derailleurs. Wheel brake rims are thoroughly cleaned of any residue of WD and brake blocks are cleaned of the dirt that washing did not remove.

On the ride-I learnt years ago to get a variety of Top coats. I do have a Goretex for the real downpours but that is only in winter when it is cold. In fact realise that when it rains you will get cold so ensure you have adequate layers on for the temps. I normally ride with a waterproof over top that is completely water and wind proof. I could sweat in it but it have plenty of vents to allow though put of air and if I do get hot then it has a full length zip. Legs and if warm then nothing extra but if cool or cold then tights are worn.

Only thing is that if you ride in the rain a lot- then parts will wear out quicker- or need more maintenance on bearings. Wheel bearing are checked regularly and headsets. Chains do not go on time or distance and they get measured for wear at least every month.

I still don't like riding in the rain though.Too much work involved but it does mean I check my bikes continually.