Installing Low Cost Recumbent Fenders

Slipstream with Planet Bike Freddy Recumbent Fenders

The following pictures and instructions are from my first installation of the Planet Bike Freddy Recumbent Fenders (see Low Cost Fenders for more information on the fenders) on my Longbikes Slipstream. Installation on a Ryan Vanguard would be very similar. I’ll be reinstalling the fenders now that I am back from my Northwest Tour and will probably be able to refine the technique on the send pass. I will update these instructions if I figure out any improvements.

Installation is very straight forward, the only thing that takes a little time is getting the length of the stays right. This needs to be done carefully so that the fender sits straight and does not rub the wheel.

You can find a PDF from Planet Bike showing how to install the Freddy Recumbent Fenders at Freddy Fenders.

Freddy Recumbent Front Fender

I used 2 stays on each side to mount the front fender. Only one stay per side is shipped with the front fender but I didn’t like the way the fender moved while riding with only one stay. This was just a cosmetic issue not a functional problem. A spare set of stays is only a few dollars but you will need to call Planet Bike when you order to get all of the parts you will need. They just ship the spare stays if you order from their spare parts list. but you will also need the nipples and fastening screws. They are very helpful if you give them a call.

Front Fender to Frame Attachment

The front fender is mounted by using the stays and a bolt through the front brake attachment hole. On the Vanguard you can use the front brake bolt. The fender comes with all of the hardware you will need to mount it on the Slipstream.

Planet Bike Freddy Rear Fender

The rear fender mounts in a very similar way to the front fender. I also secured the fender to the rear rack. It is not necessary to attach the fender to the rack but it does reduce movement some.

Rear Fender Attached to Rack – Front Tie
I added a plastic wire ties in addition to the 2 stays just reduce fender movement.

Rear Fender Attached to Rack – Rear Tie

I added a second wire tie at the back of the rack.
Yes, I know this is probabaly over kill but I have had some many problems with fenders in the past that I wanted these very secure.

The key to a good fit is to get the lenght of the stays right. Take you time on this and cut them carefully. Measure the lenght and then measure again before you cut. If you cut the stay too short the fender will twist and pop out of the nipples when you hit a bump.
I used a hack saw and it then cleaned the cut with a file.

The end result is a nice looking set of fenders that are quiet and effective for about $26.