2021 RRP ProGuard front mudguard review

The RRP ProGuard is a front mudguard that straps directly onto the fork legs and arch, fitting almost all suspension forks. It offers impressive performance, minimising spray heading in front or upwards of the front wheel while riding. The guard is attached with zip ties, but there is potential for them to mark the fork.

RRP produces multiple versions of the ProGuard with a smaller, lightweight Mini version, the Standard version on test, and a Max Protection version. The difference between the versions is the overall length of the guard. RRP also produce a range of direct-fit options, which are bolted to the arch of compatible forks.

The Standard size version that we have on test is fitted using a total of six cable ties, two for the arch and two for each fork leg. There are multiple removable sections on the mudguard to ensure it will suit different fork styles, so in theory, the mudguard will fit any fork with a front-facing arch and where the tyre size does not exceed 3".

Fitting the mudguard was a very simple process, taking no more than a few minutes from start to finish. However, I would recommend having some form of protection on the fork legs before fitting, which RRP also recommends. This could be some electrical tape or clear protection tape for a neater look. In the first fit, you will need to cut the slots to fit the zip ties, which is quite simple and once fitted to the correct position, the zip ties can be tightened, then tweaked to ensure no tyre touches the guard.

The standard-fit option uses zip ties, and while they are effective and secure, they are not reusable. There is an additional extra "hook and loop" pack available for £10, which consists of 6 small velcro straps, something some manufactures provide as standard. If you have multiple bikes or only wish to keep the guard on for wetter riding, the hook and loop pack might be worthwhile, or the alternative would mean using single-use zip ties, which might be cheap but still wasteful. However, for the majority of people, I imagine it will be a fit and forget product.

I have been using the RRP ProGuard on a few mountain bikes for several months. The performance has been excellent, with a vast improvement in the amount of spray and mud that comes off the front wheel reaching the face and body with the most noticeable area when riding at higher speeds where mud can spray out in front, which you would normally ride into it.

The easiest way of testing is seeing how much mud you can spot on your face after a ride, and with the ProGuard fitted on even the wetter, muddier rides, the difference is huge. As a rider, I dislike wearing glasses when mountain biking, despite having suffered mud and grit in my eyes far too many times to feel like I should know better, but with the ProGuard, the risk seems significantly lower. The ProGuard has also stood up to knocks while riding, transporting the bike with the front wheel removed and a few spills on the trails. Should you be unlucky enough to break it, RRP offers a 50% crash replacement scheme.

Another nice design touch is the extended sections that RRP call the "Seal Guard", which help prevent mud and even water from being thrown onto the stanchions, which could help lengthen seal life and prevent stanchion wear.

The ProGuard weighs 127g, including the six zip ties provided, which is a little heavier than some more minimal options. Still, the extra coverage it gives is worth the small weight penalty. For riders looking to save every gram possible, the Mini version is a claimed 34g lighter. RRP also offers stickers, from basic coloured options up to a full and immersive online custom print through specialist print company Vorova.

At the base price of £27, this is still a little more expensive than similar style guards available, including the Mudhugger FR at £25. There are also many more minimal guards for less, including the All Mountain Style guard for just £14. Crud Catcher offers the XL front mudguard for a little more at £30 that Jim really rated and used a replaceable rubber o-ring attachment for easy removal and attachment.

The RRP ProGuard offers impressive performance for a reasonable and competitive price when compared to similar mudguards. The zip-tie attachment might suit people who will fit and forget, but if you want to remove/refit, the optional hook and loop attachment pack might be worth the extra £10.