UPDATED APRIL 2025
Every bike and setup is different, so please keep that in mind when thinking about fenders. But most fenders are NOT a problem at all!
The tire spool–at the end of the arm that grabs the tire–must hug the tires above the horizontal mid-line of the wheel. While the spool is adjustable, placing it at 45 degrees is the optimal position, giving equal forward and downward force to secure the bike. Keep this in mind as you read on about fender solutions.
If your fender is short and does not come down as far as the tire spool, then there is no issue and you need not do anything differently than you would with a bike that doesn’t have a fender. Also, plastic fenders are flexible and can generally take the shape of the tire beneath the spool. Some fenders flair out and up at the end and it is possible to tuck the spool that grabs the tire right up under the fender.
If, however, the fender extends beyond the 45 degree tire spool position and/or is made of steel, there are a few different solutions to try.
First, when pressing the tire spool against your fender, it is not necessary to use as much pressure as one would use when compressing directly onto the tire. In other words, you will not compromise your fender because you will not use as much force. You can also place some pipe insulation tubing (from your local hardware store) around the tire spool itself to minimize scratching of the fender. The pipe insulation would be at least 2 inch diameter with 1.5-inch diameter hole.
We have also seen customers place additional pipe insulation or a cut section of a pool noodle between the tire and the fender. This will help maintain the shape of the fender and prevent it from rubbing against the tire.
It is possible (and easy, remember it’s toolless) to lower the tire spool along the arm. Doing so changes the contact point on the tire and often results in it sitting lower than or tucked under the fender. Lowering the tire spool will change the angle of the arm, so be sure to check that it is still around the optimal 45 degrees.
Additionally, we recommend using the Wheel Strap accessory. A long fender prevents the tire arm from going into the optimum position to create both forward and downward force on the tire. A wheel strap will make up for the missing downward force and prevent upward movement of the rear wheel, keeping the bike securely in the tray.
Note: In the photo below that a customer sent in, the tire spool could be moved up a couple of inches to sit right below the fender.
All of these recommendations hold true for fat tire bikes as well.
If your rear fender comes down to the 9:00 position on your rear tire, you will not be able to get a wheel lock through the tire arm, as the tire will block the holes. You can, however, still use a wheel lock on your front tire.
You may reach out to us for further support when you receive the rack and we can help you troubleshoot if it is not working for you.
NOTE: Sorry, but we are not responsible for any damage to fenders due to these suggestions and your usage of them.
Category:
Specs and Fitment
