SKS Velo 65 MTB Snap-On Fenders Review: Lightweight & Easy Installation

Updated at: 26/05/2025

This review dives into the SKS Velo 65 MTB Snap-On Fenders, a budget-friendly option offering surprisingly effective protection against road spray. For just $16, these lightweight fenders boast an easy snap-on installation process, requiring minimal tools and effort. The reviewer found them adaptable to various bike types, using them successfully on four different bikes, highlighting their versatility and ease of fit. While minor adjustments were needed for specific bike components like suspension forks and V-brakes, these were manageable and didn't detract from the overall positive experience.The lightweight design is a major selling point, contributing to the bike's overall performance without adding unnecessary weight. The sleek aesthetic complements diverse bike styles, from mountain bikes to cruisers. Although minor offsetting can occur with accidental bumps, this is easily rectified. Overall, the SKS Velo 65 fenders provide excellent value for money, making them a practical and stylish choice for cyclists seeking affordable, easy-to-install mudguard protection.

Pros And Cons

SKS Fenders
  • Decent value for money ($16)
  • Lightweight
  • Easy to install
  • Work great on multiple bikes (four mentioned)
  • Nice look on various bike types (beach cruiser, mountain bike)
  • Easy to adjust if nudged
  • Can get offset from tire if nudged
  • May require trimming for V-brakes
  • Fender stays need to be purchased separately
  • Maximum tire width coverage is 2.5 inches
  • Rear fender may require modification for suspension forks

Read more: 5 Best Child Bike Fenders to Keep Your Little One Dry

Affordable and Easy to Install

I recently purchased a pair of SKS Velo 65 MTB Snap-On fenders for only $16. That's a fantastic price for a set of functional bike fenders. Installation was surprisingly straightforward and didn't require any special tools. Even better, the lightweight design makes them easy to handle and doesn't add excessive weight to my bike.

Close-up of the price tag showing $16.
Close-up of the price tag showing $16.

While I wasn't expecting much from such an affordable pair of fenders, I was really happy with how well the fenders tightened things up, and got rid of the unsightly zip tie I used to secure my rack to my rear wheel before.

Fenders installed on the bike, showing the area where the zip tie used to be.
Fenders installed on the bike, showing the area where the zip tie used to be.

They've become my go-to fenders for multiple bikes. I've used them on four different bikes now and consistently find them easy to fit and effective at keeping spray off.

Close-up of the fenders showing the trimmed portion for V-brakes
Close-up of the fenders showing the trimmed portion for V-brakes

I did need to trim the front fenders slightly for my V-brakes, a minor adjustment for a perfect fit.

Lightweight Design and Appearance

The fenders are impressively lightweight, a big plus for me. This helps maintain a bike's overall performance without unnecessary weight. The aesthetic appeal is also a highlight; they add a sleek and modern look, complementing both beach cruisers and mountain bikes alike.

The fenders installed on the bike, highlighting their sleek appearance.
The fenders installed on the bike, highlighting their sleek appearance.

Their sleek design complements the overall look of my bike. They don't look bulky or awkward. They look good on my 90s mountain bike commuter, transforming it into a stylish and practical ride.

Fenders on a different bike type, perhaps a beach cruiser.
Fenders on a different bike type, perhaps a beach cruiser.

The lightweight nature is really a stand-out feature, allowing for effortless installation and removal if needed.

Minor Drawbacks and Adjustments

My only real complaint is that the fenders can become slightly offset from the tire if bumped accidentally. This is easily corrected with a quick manual adjustment; it’s more of a minor inconvenience than a significant flaw.

A close-up shot showing the fenders slightly offset from the tire.
A close-up shot showing the fenders slightly offset from the tire.

They are compatible with tires up to 2.5 inches wide, which worked perfectly for my Kenda tires. If you have wider tires, you might need to consider a different option.

Close-up of the tire size markings, verifying the 2.5-inch width.
Close-up of the tire size markings, verifying the 2.5-inch width.

Installation Notes and Compatibility

While installation was generally easy, fitting the front fender on my bike with a suspension fork required some modification. I had to use a heat gun to slightly adjust the fender's radius and trim the metal stay. This might not be necessary for all bikes.

The front fender being modified with a heat gun.
The front fender being modified with a heat gun.

For my bike, which has a suspension fork, the front fender needed some adjustment, including heat-gun use and trimming. This part was a little more involved and likely not needed for those with standard forks.

The rear fender installed neatly under the bike rack
The rear fender installed neatly under the bike rack

The rear fender installation was much simpler, fitting perfectly under my Topeak rear bike rack and functioning well.

Overall Conclusion and Recommendation

Despite a few minor adjustments required for my specific bike setup, I'm very happy with these SKS Velo 65 fenders. They are lightweight, easy to install, and look great on my bike. The value for the price is excellent.

Overall shot of the bike with the fenders installed.
Overall shot of the bike with the fenders installed.

The overall experience was positive and these fenders offer great value. They would be a solid choice for anyone looking for an affordable and easily-installed fender system.

A shot of the bike, emphasizing the cleanliness compared to before the fenders were installed.
A shot of the bike, emphasizing the cleanliness compared to before the fenders were installed.

For those seeking lightweight fenders that are easy to install and remove, with the option to add struts if needed, these are a fantastic choice. I would happily buy them again.