Axiom Rainrunner Deluxe Reflex Mudguards

The Axiom Rainrunner Deluxe Reflex Mudguards have a seriously solid feel. Both guards have a rubber mudflap on the bottom and once fitted they look great and perform well.

I have always shunned the use of mudguards, preferring to allow the debris and grit to provide a nice brown line of sludge up my back. Maybe a legacy of my mountain biking days but it just didn't look cool or right!

After a dismal summer and an awful winter, I have to confess, I've had a re-think. In fact I jumped at the chance to test some. With a more regular attempt at commuting the need to keep kit dry has become paramount. So after another soaking I spent an afternoon fitting a set of Axiom Rainrunner Reflex mudguards.

The first challenge is to work out the myriad of fittings, which bits go where, front or back. With a little effort this was soon established. The mudguards themselves seemed sturdy without being heavy. The struts to support and attach the rear mudguard were straightforward to fit. Once you've located the eyelets on the frame you then thread them through the guides on the guards, secure with the fittings provided. To make sure you don't pull the guard too much either way, gradually tighten one bolt at a time. This way you'll have a securely fitted rear guard without leaning too much one way or the other.

With the wheel back in place I have to admit it looked pretty good. The front guard requires more effort as the supporting struts had to be trimmed to make sure they didn't overlap and run the risk of catching the frame. Once measured, cutting the fitting was reasonably simple. One tip, make sure if you do cut the struts so that the ends are super smooth to fit through the eyelets which secure them to the guards. Any rough edges will make for a tough fit.

A quick check revealed no rattling or rubbing. Time for a road test. As luck would have it the forecast was wet, not often I've been cheering that news over the last few months.

The guards looked smart, with a small rubber flap on the ends there was a certain style too. After several commutes I'm happy to report the brown line is a thing of the past as is having to remember to keep my mouth shut when you hit a larger puddle.

I'm never going to be a huge fan of wet weather riding but the Roadrunners are helping to increase my enthusiasm when the rain comes down. Despite several lumpier stretches of road, the guards remain secure. Neither has lost its shape or position and therefore there is no rub.

An additional feature that adds an element of safety is the reflective strip when you look directly at the guard from the rear. Bright and effective there is little not to like. A good all round package.

Verdict

Sturdy mudguards, that perform really well and stay put in all weathers.