Living in the UK, I know that mudguards are the most valuable of all cycling accessories. And as far as I’m aware, the most valuable of all mudguards appear to be these $1,100 titanium models from No22 Bicycles. Significantly fancier than a set of SKS Chromoplastics, they’re custom made in the USA at the firm’s Johnstown factory.
Predominantly known for its exceedingly attractive custom titanium bicycles, No22 also makes a small range of titanium accessories. These include a titanium-bodied Silca Impero frame pump, plus a range of fenders.
Using the expertise collected through its frame making business, each set is produced from a single sheet of titanium. Resulting in mudguards that sport a compound curve, no seams, clean edges, and a lustrous finish, a pair starts at a cool $900.
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Adding in single colour anodisation will pop another $100 onto your bill, while a fade or high polish will see your total make it all the way to $1,100. On the plus side, if you get them with a No22 bike, you’ll receive model-specific graphics to match your frame.
With road bike models covering tyres up to 28c, the gravel versions will fit most 35c treads. Quite an expensive way to protect against a soggy bum, it’s still difficult to argue against these being the most exquisite mudguards on the market. Plus, with ever more high-end bikes coming with eyelets, who is to say four-figure mudguards aren't here to stay?
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Repeat award-winners at the North American Handmade Bicycle Show (NAHBS) you can find No22 complete range of mudguards and bicycles here.
