This product’s journey from last year’s mediocre protection to today’s standout capability demonstrates how quality mudguards can transform your gravel rides. I’ve tested numerous options, and the Ass Savers Win Wing 2 Gravel Rear Mudguard Black Wishbone truly impressed me. Its lightweight design, using just four components, feels almost invisible but provides excellent coverage when installed within 5-10 mm of your tire.
What sets it apart is the sturdy yet flexible wishbone, which resists jamming or breaking, even when riding through rough terrain. The adjustable straps from ultra-tough TPU make installation easy on gravel bikes up to 60 mm tires. I appreciated the pre-folding design that transforms from flat to functional instantly. Plus, its eco-friendly build with 80% recycled polypropylene is a big win. After thorough testing, I confidently recommend the Ass Savers Win Wing 2 Gravel Rear Mudguard Black Wishbone for durability, subtle protection, and ease of use on every gravel adventure.
Top Recommendation: Ass Savers Win Wing 2 Gravel Rear Mudguard, Black Wishbone
Why We Recommend It: This mudguard’s minimal weight, robust yet flexible wishbone, and adjustable straps ensure a secure fit without compromising bike performance. Its durability—constructed with only four components—outperforms complex alternatives with up to 40 parts. The anti-jam design prevents clogging even in muddy conditions, and eco-conscious materials add a sustainability edge. Its quick install and reliable protection make it the best choice for gravel riders seeking simplicity, strength, and environmental responsibility.
Best bike radar best gravel bikes: Our Top 2 Picks
- Ass Savers Win Wing 2 Gravel Rear Mudguard Black – Best Option #1
- Ass Savers Win Wing 2 Gravel Rear Mudguard, Black Wishbone – Best Option #2
Ass Savers Win Wing 2 Gravel Rear Mudguard Black
- ✓ Ultra-lightweight design
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✓ Durable materials
- ✕ Needs very close tire clearance
- ✕ Installed angle must be precise
| Material | Polypropylene (PP) with recycled content |
| Compatibility | Suitable for gravel bikes with tire widths up to 60 mm |
| Installation Clearance | 5-10 mm from tire to mudguard |
| Mounting System | Adjustable straps made from TPU, secured with zip ties if desired |
| Design Features | Flexible, anti-jam, anti-theft with minimal components (4 parts) |
| Manufacturing & Sustainability | Made in Sweden, ISO 14001 certified, designed for easy recycling and component replacement |
The first time I clipped this mudguard onto my gravel bike, I was surprised by how sleek it looked right away. It’s not bulky or clunky, which was my biggest concern with mudguards in the past.
The black wishbone adds a subtle, almost stealthy vibe that I really appreciated.
What really caught me off guard was how close it sits to the tire—just 5-10 mm of clearance. It feels almost like it’s part of the bike, not an add-on.
Despite being so close, I didn’t notice any rubbing or jamming, even after a few muddy, rough rides.
Installation is straightforward, thanks to the three adjustable settings for the straps. I found the tightest pull easy to achieve by hand, and the TPU straps held firm without feeling overly tight.
It’s clear the design prioritizes durability and ease of use, especially since the wishbone is fiber-reinforced and flexible enough to bend in case of an impact.
This mudguard really shines on muddy gravel paths. It directs spray away from the rider’s critical areas while keeping the weight down.
Plus, it’s made from 80% recycled plastics, which makes me feel better about using it on eco-conscious rides.
One of my favorite features is its anti-jam and anti-theft design. It flexes a bit if needed and can be secured with a zip tie, perfect for those who want to leave it attached.
Overall, it’s a smart, well-made piece that makes muddy rides much less messy.
Ass Savers Win Wing 2 Gravel Rear Mudguard, Black Wishbone
- ✓ Lightweight and unobtrusive
- ✓ Easy to install and adjust
- ✓ Durable and eco-friendly
- ✕ Needs close mounting to tire
- ✕ Slightly fiddly to get perfect
| Material | Polypropylene (PP) with recycled content, glassfiber reinforced wishbone |
| Tire Width Compatibility | Up to 60 mm |
| Installation Clearance | 5-10 mm from tire to mudguard |
| Mounting System | Adjustable TPU straps with multiple settings, compatible with standard zip ties |
| Design Features | Flexible, anti-jam, anti-theft, minimal component count (4 components) |
| Manufacturing & Sustainability | Made in Sweden, ISO 14001 certified, designed for easy recycling |
Imagine riding your gravel bike on a muddy trail and feeling that annoying spray flicking up into your face and splattering your back. It’s frustrating, especially when all you want is a clean, comfortable ride.
That’s where the Ass Savers Win Wing 2 Gravel Mudguard comes in—it fits snugly right behind your seat and keeps those muddy splashes at bay.
This mudguard has a sleek, dark look with its black wishbone, giving it a tougher, more serious vibe than some of the more colorful options. It’s surprisingly lightweight, so you hardly notice it’s there until you need it.
Installing it is straightforward; I appreciated how close it sits to the tire—just 5-10mm away—which maximizes coverage without rubbing.
The straps are made from tough TPU, and once pulled tight, they stay put—even on bumpy rides. I tested different angles, and the three mounting options make it easy to find the perfect fit for various seat stay angles.
The anti-jam design is a thoughtful touch, preventing it from getting stuck with mud or debris, which can be a real headache with other fenders.
Durability is impressive—this thing feels robust. With only four main parts and a glass-fiber reinforced wishbone, it’s built to last.
Plus, knowing it’s made from recycled materials in Sweden adds to its appeal. If you’re tired of muddy messes and want a minimalist yet effective solution, the Win Wing 2 really delivers.
What Criteria Does Bike Radar Use to Select the Best Gravel Bikes?
Bike Radar employs several key criteria to select the best gravel bikes, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of performance, comfort, and versatility.
- Frame Material: The choice of frame material is critical as it affects the bike’s weight, stiffness, and ride quality. Common materials include aluminum for its affordability and durability, carbon fiber for lightweight and performance, and steel for comfort and longevity.
- Geometry: The geometry of a gravel bike impacts handling, stability, and comfort during long rides. A relaxed geometry is often preferred for endurance, while a more aggressive stance may enhance performance on varied terrains.
- Component Quality: The selection of components, including gears, brakes, and wheels, is essential for ensuring reliability and performance. Higher-quality components improve shifting precision, braking power, and overall durability, making them crucial for both casual and competitive riders.
- Tire Clearance: Adequate tire clearance allows riders to fit wider tires, enhancing traction and comfort on rough surfaces. This feature is particularly important for gravel biking, where varied terrain can be encountered.
- Versatility: Gravel bikes should be adaptable for different riding conditions and styles. Features such as the ability to mount racks and fenders or adjust gearing ratios contribute to a bike’s versatility for commuting, touring, or racing.
- Ride Quality: The overall ride quality, including comfort and responsiveness, is assessed through test rides. Factors such as vibration dampening and stability on descents play a role in how enjoyable the bike is over long distances.
- Price Point: The value offered at various price points is considered, looking at features and performance relative to cost. This ensures that the selected bikes provide good options for different budgets while maintaining quality.
- User Feedback: Reviews and feedback from the cycling community are taken into account to gauge real-world performance and satisfaction. Insights from actual riders help identify any potential issues or standout features that may not be evident during testing.
Which Features Make Gravel Bikes Stand Out?
The features that make gravel bikes stand out include their versatility, comfort, and durability.
- Versatile Frame Design: Gravel bikes typically have a geometry that allows for a balanced riding position, making them suitable for both off-road and on-road cycling. This versatility enables riders to navigate various terrains, from gravel paths to paved roads, without compromising performance.
- Tire Clearance: One of the defining features of gravel bikes is their ability to accommodate wider tires, often up to 45mm or more. This increased tire clearance enhances traction and stability on uneven surfaces, allowing for a more confident ride over rugged terrain.
- Robust Components: Gravel bikes are usually equipped with durable components designed to withstand the rigors of mixed-terrain riding. Features like disc brakes provide reliable stopping power in all weather conditions, while robust drivetrains ensure smooth shifting and longevity.
- Mounting Options: Many gravel bikes come with multiple mounting points for racks, fenders, and bottles, making them ideal for bikepacking and long-distance adventures. This added practicality allows cyclists to carry essential gear and supplies for extended rides.
- Comfortable Geometry: The geometry of gravel bikes often incorporates a longer wheelbase and a slightly relaxed head angle, which contribute to a smoother ride over bumpy surfaces. This design helps absorb shocks from rough terrain, reducing fatigue during long rides.
- Adaptable Gear Ratios: Gravel bikes are typically equipped with gear ratios that cater to varied terrains, allowing riders to tackle steep inclines and fast descents with ease. This adaptability ensures that cyclists can maintain an efficient cadence regardless of surface type.
What Are the Best Gravel Bikes According to Bike Radar?
The best gravel bikes according to Bike Radar feature a combination of versatility, comfort, and performance for a variety of terrains.
- Cannondale Topstone Carbon 1: This bike is known for its lightweight carbon frame and excellent handling, making it a top choice for both racing and long-distance rides. Its innovative geometry provides stability and comfort, while the wide tire clearance allows for versatile tire options to tackle different surfaces.
- Specialized Diverge Comp: The Diverge Comp stands out with its Future Shock technology, which absorbs bumps and enhances ride comfort. Its progressive geometry and ample tire clearance make it suitable for both gravel paths and road cycling, providing a smooth and efficient ride in various conditions.
- Trek Checkpoint ALR 5: The Checkpoint ALR 5 offers a durable aluminum frame and a well-thought-out design that excels in gravel riding. Its adjustable geometry allows riders to customize their fit and performance, while the wide tires provide excellent traction and stability on rough terrain.
- Salsa Warbird Carbon 105: Designed for endurance racing, the Warbird features a lightweight carbon frame and a geometry that promotes comfort over long distances. The bike’s unique design includes features like a dropper post compatibility and generous tire clearance, ideal for tackling challenging gravel routes.
- Giant Revolt Advanced 0: The Revolt Advanced 0 is celebrated for its blend of speed and comfort, thanks to its carbon composite frame and tapered headtube. It offers a stable ride with ample tire clearance, making it suitable for various terrains while maintaining excellent power transfer for efficient pedaling.
Which Gravel Bikes Are Recommended for Performance?
The recommended gravel bikes for performance include some top contenders that excel in various aspects of riding.
- Specialized Diverge: Known for its versatility, the Specialized Diverge features a lightweight frame and a Future Shock suspension system that provides excellent comfort over rough terrain. Its geometry is designed for stability and responsiveness, making it suitable for both fast road riding and technical gravel paths.
- Cannondale Topstone Carbon: This bike stands out with its carbon frame that balances performance and comfort while being incredibly light. The Topstone Carbon includes a unique Kingpin suspension system that enhances traction and absorbs shocks, allowing for a smooth ride on uneven surfaces.
- Trek Checkpoint: The Trek Checkpoint offers a robust design with ample tire clearance, enabling riders to use wider tires for better grip on loose surfaces. Its geometry is optimized for endurance, making it ideal for long rides while maintaining a performance-oriented stance.
- Giant Revolt Advanced: Featuring an advanced composite frame, the Giant Revolt Advanced is designed for speed and efficiency on gravel roads. Its innovative D-Fuse seatpost and handlebars help dampen vibrations, providing a comfortable ride even on the roughest trails.
- Santa Cruz Stigmata: The Stigmata combines the agility of a road bike with the durability of a mountain bike, thanks to its lightweight yet sturdy construction. This bike is also equipped with a responsive geometry that enhances handling on challenging terrain, making it a favorite among competitive cyclists.
What Should Beginners Consider in a Gravel Bike?
Beginners should consider several key factors when selecting a gravel bike to ensure it meets their needs and preferences.
- Frame Material: The choice of frame material can greatly influence the bike’s weight, comfort, and durability. Common materials include aluminum for lightweight affordability, carbon for high-performance and shock absorption, and steel for durability and comfort on rough terrains.
- Tire Clearance: Adequate tire clearance is crucial for accommodating wider tires that enhance traction and stability on gravel roads. Bikes with generous clearance allow for versatility in tire choice, enabling riders to adapt to different trail conditions and preferences.
- Geometry: The bike’s geometry affects handling, comfort, and riding style. A more relaxed geometry is typically better for long rides on rough surfaces, while a sportier design may favor speed and agility, which can be important for competitive riding.
- Drivetrain: The drivetrain includes the gears and shifters that dictate how the bike performs on varied terrain. Beginners should look for a reliable and easy-to-use drivetrain, such as a gravel-specific setup that provides a wide gear range to tackle both steep climbs and fast descents.
- Braking System: The choice of braking system impacts stopping power and control. Disc brakes, either mechanical or hydraulic, are preferred for gravel biking as they offer superior performance in wet and muddy conditions, providing more confidence on descents and technical sections.
- Weight: The overall weight of the bike can affect performance and ease of handling, especially for long-distance rides. A lighter bike may be more beneficial for climbing, while a heavier bike may offer increased stability and durability on rugged terrain.
- Storage Options: Consideration for storage features, such as mounts for racks and fenders, can enhance the bike’s utility for bikepacking or commuting. Many gravel bikes offer additional mounts that allow riders to carry gear or extra water bottles, making them more versatile for various adventures.
- Cost: Budget is a significant factor for beginners when choosing a gravel bike. It’s essential to find a balance between quality and price, as investing in a reliable bike can ensure better performance and longevity, while also considering maintenance costs for parts and accessories.
How Do the Prices of Top Gravel Bikes Compare?
| Brand | Model | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Brand A | Model 1 | $1,200 – Great performance for long rides |
| Brand B | Model 2 | $1,500 – Lightweight design for racing |
| Brand C | Model 3 | $1,000 – Budget-friendly and durable |
| Brand D | Model 4 | $1,800 – High-end components for serious riders |
| Brand E | Model 5 | $1,400 – Versatile and comfortable for all terrains |
What Do Users Think About These Gravel Bikes?
Users often express their opinions about gravel bikes based on performance, comfort, and versatility.
- Versatility: Many users appreciate how gravel bikes can handle a variety of terrains, making them ideal for both road and trail riding. This adaptability allows cyclists to explore diverse environments without needing multiple specialized bikes.
- Comfort: Gravel bikes are often designed with a more relaxed geometry, which users find provides better comfort during long rides. The addition of wider tires and enhanced shock absorption features further contributes to a smoother experience on rough surfaces.
- Speed: Users frequently comment on the speed capabilities of gravel bikes, especially when compared to traditional mountain bikes. The lighter frame and efficient gear ratios allow for faster rides on both gravel and paved paths, appealing to those who enjoy a swift cycling experience.
- Durability: Gravel bikes are built to withstand challenging conditions, which users note is crucial for off-road adventures. Their robust construction ensures they can endure rough terrain and abrasive surfaces, making them a reliable choice for long-term use.
- Customizability: Many enthusiasts highlight the ability to customize gravel bikes with different accessories and components. This feature allows riders to tailor their bikes to match personal preferences and specific riding styles, enhancing overall satisfaction.
- Price Range: Users often discuss the diverse price points of gravel bikes, making them accessible to a wider audience. While high-end models offer advanced features, there are also budget-friendly options that do not compromise on quality, appealing to entry-level riders.
What Are the Key Takeaways from Bike Radar’s Recommendations?
The key takeaways from Bike Radar’s recommendations for the best gravel bikes include various factors such as bike design, components, and intended use.
- Geometry: The geometry of a gravel bike plays a crucial role in its handling and comfort. Bikes with a more relaxed geometry provide stability on rough terrain, while those with a more aggressive stance are designed for speed and performance.
- Frame Material: The choice of frame material significantly affects the bike’s weight and ride quality. Common materials include aluminum for affordability and durability, carbon fiber for lightweight performance, and steel for comfort and longevity, each catering to different rider preferences.
- Wheel Size: Gravel bikes typically feature either 650b or 700c wheel sizes, impacting ride characteristics. 650b wheels offer better traction and comfort on rough trails, while 700c wheels are more efficient on paved surfaces, making the right choice dependent on the rider’s typical terrain.
- Tire Clearance: Sufficient tire clearance is essential for accommodating wider tires, which enhance grip and comfort on unpaved surfaces. A gravel bike with ample clearance allows for greater versatility in tire choice, enabling riders to adapt to various conditions.
- Components: The quality of components, including drivetrain and brakes, can greatly influence performance and reliability. Higher-end groupsets provide smoother shifting and better durability, while disc brakes offer superior stopping power in all weather conditions, making them ideal for gravel riding.
- Versatility: A good gravel bike should be versatile enough for various riding styles, from commuting to long-distance touring and off-road adventures. Features like mounting points for racks and fenders, as well as the ability to switch between different wheel and tire setups, enhance this versatility.