A number of younger riders I talk to have resisted mudguards on the basis that they are for older riders. Well I used to hold that view but now wonder - why didn't I do this sooner?
Fitting is a little bit of a faff, with the front guard requiring more of an effort than the rear. There is an eyelet fixing that allows the guard to be fitted directly to the frame. Then you can slot the struts through and attach to the frame. The front is a little more complicated as the supporting struts generally have to be cut to fit. Once you've managed that then fitting the guard is a simple process.
The rear guard has a large reflector attached to the bottom, an individual choice as it is reasonably heavy but for the safety conscious this is an added bonus. It is screw fitted so can be removed if you wish. Talking of safety the Tortec Reflector Guards are aptly named. Other guards I have seen have a reflective strip down the back of the guard but on these they have an added strip down each side which improves your visibility from the side. This is ideal at junctions etc making you a little more obvious to drivers.
Thankfully the conditions have allowed me to put the Tortecs through their paces. If there isn't plenty of surface water around there is plenty of grit. They have coped with this, the mudflap at the bottom of the front guard being a pleasant addition. There is no rattle or shake and they have kept the worst of the rubbish off my back.
If you haven't taken the plunge, then for the sake of a little time and effort these mudguards will be a great addition to your bike.
Well priced and well made, including reflective trim for side and rear visibility.
road.cc test report
Make and model: Tortec Reflector Guards
Tell us what the product is for, and who it's aimed at. What do the manufacturers say about it? How does that compare to your own feelings about it?
Keeping the extra debris that inhabits the roads over the autumn/winter months off you and your bike.
Tell us some more about the technical aspects of the product?
Simple design with an additional mudflap on the front guard.
Rate the product for quality of construction:
8/10
They are sturdy and have proved fit for purpose without getting bent out of shape.
Rate the product for performance:
9/10
As they say on the tin, designed to keep you drier and debris free.
Rate the product for durability:
8/10
The Tortec Reflactors have proved long lasting, with-standing plenty of bumps to stay in shape.
Rate the product for weight, if applicable:
7/10
With the added rear reflector it makes for a fairly weighty proposition but this can be removed if you so wish.
Rate the product for value:
8/10
I would say for the money these guards are relatively straight forward to fit and have proven reliable.
Tell us how the product performed overall when used for its designed purpose
As you would hope from a mudguard, the Tortecs once fitted have proven their worth in keep me and my kit drier than I would usually expect.
Tell us what you particularly liked about the product
The additional reflectivity on the side of the guards is a nice touch and given the need for this in the winter very reassuring.
Tell us what you particularly disliked about the product
Not the easiest to cut the fittings to size.
Did you enjoy using the product? I have indeed.
Would you consider buying the product? Yes - not having used them before I was impressed.
Would you recommend the product to a friend? Yes.
Anything further to say about the product in conclusion?
Good value.
I usually ride: My best bike is:
I've been riding for: I ride: I would class myself as:
I regularly do the following types of riding:
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