Fender Up: A Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Fenders on Your E-Bike

Introduction

As an e-bike user, you must be well aware of useful accessories that make your ride comfortable, such as fenders. Fenders are known for providing essential protection from debris and water, enhancing the chances of a better riding experience. They shield the riders from splashes caused by wet roads and rain and prevent debris like gravel, mud, or dirt from being kicked up. Along with improving comfort, fenders help enhance safety by maintaining visibility and reducing distraction, thereby playing a crucial role for E-bike riders.

A wide variety of fenders cater to diverse preferences, keeping riding styles in mind. Full fenders help offer extensive coverage and shield the front and rear wheels. On the other hand, short fenders provide more minimalist protection and cover a small portion of the wheels. Materials for fenders can include aluminum, plastic, or composite materials. Plastic fenders are affordable and lightweight, while aluminum fenders are more durable and provide a sleek appearance. Based on their unique benefits, riders can choose the suitable one for use.

 

Preparation of the tools

Before you begin with the installation of e-bike fenders, you must gather the necessary tools and materials as mentioned below:

Fenders: Make sure to use the right type and size of fenders suitable for your e-bike. 

Mounting Hardware: You can keep bolts, nuts, brackets, and washers handy for installation. 

Fender Holder: A wire that holds the Fender in place.

Fender Clip: A bracket that keeps the holder to the Fender in place.

Screwdriver set: A good set of flat heads, along with a Phillips head screwdriver, helps in fastening bolts and screws. 

Adjustable wrench: It helps in tightening nuts and bolts securely.

Allen key set: Its availability in various sizes makes installation easier.

Besides the valuable tools, you may also need certain additional items like;

Lubricant: To be applied on bolts and screws for using installation and preventing rusting over time. 

Rag or cloth: This will be handy for wiping away access lubricant and cleaning surfaces. 

Zip ties: These are used to secure the fenders in place and ensure stable installation. The variety in sizes helps accommodate different attachment points on your e-bike. 

Once you have gathered essential tools, you must follow certain safety precautions, such as wearing proper gloves and eye protection, to prevent any mishap during installation.

 

Front Fenders: Installation Process

Since all the necessary tools are collected in one place, the front fender installation can be started. But before beginning the process, you must identify some mounting points on the e-bike and fork.

Start by placing the front Fender over the front wheel to determine the optimal position. Ensure the Fender sits evenly and provides adequate coverage over the tire to do its job perfectly. Now, attachment points must be identified where the Fender will be mounted. Due to different e-bike designs, these attachment points may vary. 

After identification of the required points, here are the detailed steps for attaching the front Fender:

Step 1: Mounting the Fender on the fork's backside

On the front Fender, start by locating the tab at the back of the break arch. Now position the Fender behind the brake arch and ensure the fit is secured. 

Special Note: If your e-bike has a headlight, you must note that it will share the same amount with the Fender. So, you can use the existing bolts on the fork to attach them to the fork. 

Step 2: Locating the form and mounting the fender strut

Some bikes are made according to designs that have a sliding connector mounted to a circular clamp on the fork. This allows adjustment of fender height without disrupting the fork's finish. 

Now, using an Allen wrench and a combination of open wrench, open the clamp and insert the Bolt through the fender strut, placing a washer on the back. 

Then try threading the Bolt and tightening it secularly to get a snug fit, but overtightening must be prevented as it damages polycarbonate components. 

Special Note: If you use zip ties to provide additional support, trim to the required size. Then, use the zip ties to secure fender stays or other attachment points to the frame or fork as needed.

 

Quick Tips For Extra Safety

Here are a few tips on adjusting the fender height and clearance from the tire.

• Ensure proper alignment where the Fender sits parallel to the tire for proper performance and aesthetics. Before the bolts are tightened, you can use a level or eyeball to ensure it is straight. 
• To prevent rubbing during traveling, ensure at least 5mm of clearance between the Fender and the tire. 
• If your bike has a longer bolt with a nut, you can use a washer to prevent it from pulling through.
• You may find adjustable attachment points or mounting brackets that allow for fine-tuning the angle and height. You can experiment with these adjustments to find the optimal position. 
• Once all the adjustments are made, take a short test ride to ensure the tires' movement is not interfered with, especially when the suspension compresses or during turning.
• If you are a heavy rider, the weight may compress the suspension more, reducing the clearance between the fenders and tires so you can adjust accordingly to prevent rubbing. 
• Do not overtighten the mountain hardware, for it can distort the Fender and cause stress on attachment points.
• Make sure the Fender is compatible with your tire size. Aur comes with spaces to accommodate different tire widths.

 

Rear Fenders: Installation Process

Once front fender installation is completed, now is the time to know about the installation of rear fenders

Identify potential mounting points on the e-bike frame and seat stays.

Detailed steps for attaching the rear Fender using the prepared tools.

Tips for adjusting the fender angle and clearance from the tire.

You can repeat the steps above for the front and rear fenders, too. However, you must make a note to maintain symmetry and proper clearance from the tire. 

Step 1: Distancing the fenders set adequately

Locate the telescoping clamp and loosen it slightly to facilitate installation. Set the Fender at a proper distance from the tire on both sides.

Special Note: The brake rotor is usually sharp, so avoid contact with it.

Once you have tightened all the bolts securely, shake the Fender gently to confirm proper mounting. Now, you can check whether the headlight is properly first and is not rotating or tilting while riding the bike. 

Step 2: Check for rubbing or wobbling

Sometimes, you may need to make slide adjustments to the fenders to avoid them rubbing against the tie. The fender mount slot or fender holders made from steel can be manipulated for any rubbing issue. If the tire is wobbling and making rubbing sounds, it indicates the problem of the tire or wheel, not the Fender. You can also check the fenders for tension from the nearest mechanic or your e-bike dealer.

 

Essential factors when installing fenders with integrated tail lights

When installing fenders with integrated tail lights, ensure compatibility with your e-bike electrical system. There are some factors that you must keep in mind during installation:

• Check the voltage requirements and connector type to ensure a proper fit.
• Route wires are used to avoid interference, and waterproof connections are used for protection against moisture.
• Test the tail lights for adequate functioning before finalizing the installation.
• Opt for regular maintenance and consideration of backup power sources to ensure uninterrupted operation. 
• Proper cleaning and lubrication of the connectors are needed to maintain optimal performance.

 

Final Touches

In conclusion, after installing your e-bike fenders, ensure thorough attention to detail for optimal performance. Check twice whether all screws and bolts are tightened and don't get loosened during rides. Verify proper clearance between fenders and tires throughout their rotation to avoid potential rubbing or interference. Take a moment to test the functionality of mud flaps, if applicable, ensuring they effectively deflect water and debris. With these steps completed, you can ride confidently, knowing your fenders are securely attached and ready to provide essential protection on your journeys.