fender decision

[laura*]

so, laura* says the 37mm will be fine, but that article says I should need 42mm at least. I'm still confused.

I just went out and measured the fenders that came stock on my folding (commute) bike: The fenders are 47mm, and the tires are also 47mm wide.
It seems to me that the bike industry does not follow the "10mm extra" rule.

I checked the Soma site, and noticed that in addition to the 37 and 45mm sizes, they also offer a 60mm size. I suggest measuring your bike - specifically the space between the fork blades and the space between your brake arms (when the brakes are applied). In case you don't have a metric ruler, 37mm is 1 1/2 inches, 45mm is 1 3/4 inches, and 60mm 2 3/8 inches.

[Sky King]

We always ask "where are you riding said bike" Personally I would rather have a bit more clearance between my tire and fender. Coming to a complete, unexpected halt due to something getting caught between a fender and a tire isn't fun. So keep in mind where you are riding and how much stuff - twigs, leaves et al are on your path. Of course, I also hear the concern about looking a bit silly if there is too much space. we have found the 10mm rule of thumb to work well, thus the post.