A few questions - mudguards, inner tubes

[Danny91]

Hello,

I recently purchased a Trek 7.1 FX 2011 model and I was hoping for some advice.

It did not come with mudguards - would you guys say these are important? I have a saddle bag that fits behind the saddle but touches the rear wheel when it hangs down - I am guessing a mudguard would stop this?

Also, what type of inner tube shall I buy to take on rides with me incase I get a puncture? In the specification Trek provide. it states that the Tyres are both:
Bontrager H2, 700x35c

If recommended, could you advise me on which mudguards to look at and what type of inner tube would suit my bike?

Thanks!

 

[tyred]

I know others disagree but I consider mudguards vital. They keep me clean and keep the bike and transmission clean.

Inner tube sizing is not an exact science but you should find some labelled something like 700 x 32 -40c which will fit yours fine. What you need to consider is the valve type. It will be either Schrader (like a car) or Presta (narrow with a knurled nut on the top). There is a third type of valve called the Woods valve but htat's most unlikely on a new bike today.

 

[musa]

If you plan to use it in all weathers then I say yeah better than having a wet arse and dirty clothes. Those who have the bike can advise on mudguard types

If you a buy an inner tube look on The box for the tyre range 700x??

 

[2Loose]

Also be aware that presta valve innertubes come with normal or long valve stems. If the rims are deep then a long stem will normally be required so it can poke out far enough to attach a pump.

 

[Rickshaw Phil]

My brother also has a Trek 7.1fx. He got a set of Tortec mudguards which have been great so far. I'm another that considers mudguards essential, especially if you ride in rural areas where mud and water can be found on the road even when the weather is dry. Having no mudguards is for serious racers and fair weather cyclists only. (And mountain bikers, but they are a bit masochistic).

Your bike will be fitted with Schrader type tubes so this is the sort you should have as spares. As already mentioned, tubes fit a range of sizes so any which covers 700x35 will do the job.

 

[Danny91]

Thanks for the replies guys.

Say I wanted these mudguards that Rickshaw posted:

http://www.sjscycles.co.uk/tortec-reflector-mudguards-prod15328/

My tyre is 700x35c - should I go for the 700x27/35 or the 700x36/44?

Could someone tell me what the '700' and '35' actually stand for?
Also how can I tell whether I need the short or long valved inner tubes?

Thanks!

 

[MrJamie]

700x35 refers to 700mm diameter of the wheel and 35mm width of the tyre.

I would guess that since those mudguards give a range - its the range of tyre width theyre suitable for, some mudguards are sold by their actual width. The 27-35 should be alright for your tyre but youre kind of between sizes so Id guess could get either. http://www.wiggle.co.uk/sks-chromoplastic-road-mudguard-set/ are also good, but the reflector on the tortecs is kinda cool. You dont want the bag putting any weight on the guard really or itll make it rub on the tyre like a brake.

As Phil said you have Schrader valves, they only come in one valve length so easier there. Halfprice tube sale here it seems, http://www.edinburghbicycle.com/products/specialized-inner-tubes Youd need the 700 28-38 schrader from there.