The presence or absence of wings by the bicycle is one of the most controversial topics for cyclists. Many say that they are absolutely not needed, since the aerodynamic properties of transport violate. The rest of the cyclists claims that in our country it is impossible to do without this accessory. Consider the wings for a bike of 29 inches, what they happen and how to choose.
Peculiarities
First you need to know why this product is necessary. Its main purpose is to save your "iron friend" and you clean and dry after the end of the trip. However, recently cycling wings are created to give transport more stylish and elegant appearance.
Before choosing wings You need to find out the size of your wheel. It always varies, but mostly the indicator is between 20 to 29 inches.
In general, the wheels of 29 inches - a fairly new "invention", mainly applied on mountain biking and are already gaining wide popularity among cyclists.
Now take a look at a number of features of 29-inch wings.
- Minimum wheel diameter - 26 inches . On smaller wheels, such wings will look ugly and can greatly interfere with ride.
- Put these models best on bikes Mountain type with wide wheels.
- Accessory should not interfere with ride cling to the details and be badly fixed.
Views
Considering various types of wings, You can classify them in several factors.
- Production material. Here you can mark steel, which is distinguished by the fortress and high weight. Aluminum is easier than steel models, but it is rare and costs expensive. Another option is plastic. It is relatively inexpensive, but it is also rare.
- Fastening method. There are rapid and stationary wings. But you can also meet "exotic" or homemade variants of wings and their fastening types. It is worth noting that the front and rear are attached slightly differently.
- Dimensions. Short specimens are most often made of light and ergonomic materials that are less affected by aerodynamics of transport. Long models are usually performed from various kinds of metals. They are able to close most of the wheel circumference and pick up a lot of dirt on themselves.
Rating the best models
Among the entire variety of the range you can highlight the best models that meet all the requirements and are not so expensive.
CRUD ROADRACER MK2.
This model of highway cycling wings with minimal gap and extended protection. Construction accessory Traditionally durable, attached to the brake bridges bolts, and the main arch is made of metal. Such production rates have not changed for several years and give a positive result that users say. The recommended width of the tire is 25-30 mm.
SKS Velocity.
A set of wings that are pretty tightly adjacent to the tire and consistently protect the driver from dirt. It is worth noting that Protection applies to the front brakes, which are also under the protection of the wing . The kit is made of plastic and weighs only 330 grams. Brand, verified SKS (Germany). Suitable on wheels 28-29 inches. After purchase, I want to put a positive assessment to the product.
Zefal Deflector FM60.
Universal Front Wing, suitable for mountain bicycles with wheel diameters 26, 27.5 or 29 inches. At the end of the wing, an additional soft spoiler is installed, which improves the protection of racks from small damage. Wing width is 60-73 mm. Stylish appearance and matte black color have a user to buy. Zefal - The manufacturer is very famous in the sphere of producing bicycle accessories.
Advantages and disadvantages
Buying this accessory, it is necessary to know that it has both positive and negative properties that will now be considered.
Let's start with the advantages.
- Wings (especially full-size and metal) look perfect on the device with wide tires. They give the transport some "highlight", make its appearance much better and elegant.
- Driver protection from external influences - dirt, water.
Unfortunately, of the advantages - it's all. The shortcomings are found a little more.
- Excess weight which can be critical for those who seek to win extra seconds. Light plastic wings practically do not make sense in buying (quickly break), and metal - weigh quite a lot.
- The aerodynamic properties of the bicycle are significantly reduced. In ordinary trips, it does not mean anything, but a professional athlete can lose a second at the start.
- Weak protection Which will not save you from rain, snow and other weather conditions.
- Most wings are Weak fasteners Supore the usual ride, but riding on hilly areas, most likely will not be transferred.
Making a conclusion, it can be said that this cycling accessory is often bought to improve the appearance of transport. But badly affects its technical characteristics.
Where to buy?
Purchase of wings - the case is simple (with due skills), But the place of purchase of this accessory plays an important role.
- Sport stores. Yes, in ordinary sports stores in the assortment there are almost always cycling wings. However, it is better to buy here only as a last resort - trust specialized stores.
- Online stores. The most affordable and common option. The choice here is quite large, it is not necessary to go anywhere, and prices are low. But quality can be both good and not very.
- Cycling stores. In such stores fake expect silly. Prices here are "Standard", as the store is still specialized and official.
All such establishments always provide a guarantee of 1 year, which gives a changeance of replacement when breakdown.
Choice rules
Choosing any wings, It is worth considering several important criteria that will help make your choice right.
- Manufacturer. Before buying it is worth paying attention to the quality of the product itself and the manufacturer. Professional cyclists prefer foreign companies that create, indeed, high-quality products, the use of which practically does not affect the characteristics of your vehicle.
- The diameter of the wheels and wings. It is important to know that the models of the wings of 29 inches are suitable on the wheels from 27 to 29 sizes inclusive. In other cases, they will interfere, rather than bring any favor.
- Design. Not such an important factor, but you need to consider it. Remember that you can find high-quality and stylish wings. Surging in the open area, you will attract the attention of people, and also to look with the pleasure of our "Iron horse". Fortunately, the range in the modern world is very wide, so finding a suitable model will not be much difficulty.
- Material . In essence, there are 2 main types of wing material: plastic and metal. The first is convenient because it poorly affects the aerodynamic properties of the bike. The second - often looks more attractive (due to its metal shine), but strongly spoil the aerodynamics of the device.
Review wings for a bike of 29 inches See in the video.