Fenders

[KnottedYet]

Fenders make a huge difference in how wet you get on a commute. I'd guess about 90% of the water I was getting soaked with on my commute was coming from my own wheels.

Once I got fenders I was amazed by how much drier I was. Even my shoes!

[miffy'sFuji]

Part of my commute goes along a bike path in the park in my city. Early in the morning (before I get there) they have the sprinklers on. It is amazing how much even the thinnest film of water splashes up.

I don't have fenders, but often wish I did. I change once I get to work (and I usually need to!).

One time I made the mistake of riding through a few wet leaves. There weren't many, but they splashed up some chunks of dirt as high as my glasses. oops.

[Blueberry]

Fenders also keep the spray off the bike - most noteably the drive train. Less wear and tear (and cleanup) from the icky road water mixed with grit!

[GLC1968]

Wow...so fenders really do keep one that much dryer? VERY interesting!

Oh, and Carrie Anne...that totally makes sense about protecting the bike as well. I hadn't thought about that!

[Eden]

plus, if you ever intend to ride with someone else and it is raining a nice pair of fenders with a good buddy flap (an extra flap attached to the rear fender, generally homemade, sometimes from half a water bottle) will make the whole experience much nicer and cleaner for them.

[velogirl]

Or, if you're riding on wet roads (post-rain) and you won't get wet from rain, fenders will prevent getting wet from splash.

In groups, fenders are pretty much required during wet weather. Nothing worse than trying to sit on someone's wheel and getting sprayed.

And fenders are great for putting reflective tape on!!!

[light_sabe_r]

I'm not getting a wet butt anymore since I got mine. I'd wait at work for the rain to stop only to get a soaked backside anyway. it's made a huge difference to my comfort level.

I've got one of those quick release detachable ones. My main grief with it is it moves around a LOT.

[MomOnBike]

On a recumbent a front fender prevents you from getting a lap or face full of Gawd Only Knows What The back one keeps the stripe off the backside of your head.