Mudguard pop-offs

[Shoogle]

Can this SKS mudguard pop-off be replaced with other type, without changing the struts? The SKS type are almost impossible to detach by hand so would they work when needed?

[RickH]

No - you would have to replace the stays (struts). I don't know about anyone else but I've not heard of any problems with the first type not working (I've used both sorts but never had a situation, & don't know anyone personally, where they have needed to do their thing).

[mjr]

I've not seen the second sort but I have seen the bolt back type, which works with the same stay end shape although it needs slightly shorter stays.

My wife and I between us have experience of both types working. SKS type are usually reusable by popping the stays in, unless it was a really violent activation, but the bolt back type are usually single use because a plastic insert breaks readily.

[Shoogle]

It's just that I need to remove it to get access to the disc brake caliper. I just have to take out the bolt. With the other type, you can pull them apart by hand.

[Brucey]

It's just that I need to remove it to get access to the disc brake caliper. I just have to take out the bolt. With the other type, you can pull them apart by hand.

Its my least favourite release design; the stupid piece of plastic breaks more often than it releases. It isn't even substantial enough to have bolt tightened on it properly without risk of breakage or loosening. When it breaks there is usually a piece left jammed in the hole. I recommend that you put a bolt through from the other side and use a nylock nut on it; this will not loosen even if it isn't tightened fully.

If you need to access the brake caliper then removing the stays is your only option, unless they are still long enough that they can be fitted with a big kink to give caliper clearance. If you just want to check the caliper bolts there are other ways of making sure they are tight.

cheers

[Shoogle]

I was taking the caliper off to replace the pads. I find this easier than removing the wheel.

[alexnharvey]

An alternative strategy is to mount the stays above the caliper, either by using a p-clip or the mid fork braze-on if there is one. This is what I have done and it works well. You have to bend the stays a bit too.

[Shoogle]

That's an idea but as I have an eye for the mudguard, I'll just use it. It's not as if I'm changing brake pads every week.

[alexnharvey]

I also have an eye for a mudguard, positioned the same as yours in that the stay must then pass close to the caliper.

[reohn2]

Both systems hold well and can be seperated easily if squirted with a little GT85/WD40/TF2 or similer