Originally Posted by
PhilPub
Normally I'd say a simple "yes", but I'm currently weighing up the pros and cons for taking them on tour with me later in the year. The main "con" being the hassle of getting them on and off the bike and transporting them on a long-haul flight.
Scenario: 2/3 weeks, Aug/Sept, on the Pacific Coast Hwy, Oregon and California. Luggage: 2 x Ortlieb (waterproof) panniers + bar bag + camping equipment (in dry bags if necessary).
My feeling is that whilst a few spots of rain are quite likely, the protection afforded by the guards isn't worth the hassle of taking them along. A few items in dry bags on the rear rack will stop my rear getting too wet, I can wipe down the bike every day and dry out any wet stuff in the evening.
Thoughts??
I wouldn't worry about them in your case. It can and will rain at any time, but things get better the further South you get. I imagine you are probably flying into Portland? If so and if the weather is not looking great, have some installed locally.