Axiom Roadrunner LX Reflex Mudguards

Axiom Road Runner LX Reflex mudguards are beautifully executed and relatively easy to install, even on frames with wishbone rear triangles and similar challenges. However, modest reflectives were disappointing given their moniker.

Available in various widths, the guards are made from a very sophisticated and supposedly unbreakable composite called 'Techniflex'. They curve gracefully and have responded admirably to drilling and other light modifications.

This was necessary for dynamo/battery lights and satisfactory fit aboard my MK2 On-One Ilpompino. Modifications may void Axiom's lifetime warrantee but has negligible effect in practice.

Said frame's cyclo cross inspired clearances ensured our 45mm wide guards afforded excellent coverage with 32-35mm rubber while the fractionally shorter front counteracted some annoying toe-clip overlap.

Bargain on 30 minutes for mounting on standard road or Audax bikes, nearer 60 given the challenges presented by my faithful fixer.

Axiom includes 'axle runners', nicely machined pop-on eyelets made from anodised aluminium. Essentially a 21st century P-clip, these slip inboard of quick release skewers. As a result, alignment is better, although roadside wheel removal takes slightly longer.

Quick release security stays aren't included, so I retrofitted some from my spares bin and would gladly pay the paltry pound or so for them.

Overall performance is excellent with little evidence of overspray along fork blades, chainstays and bottom bracket shell-even during torrential storms. Similarly, extended mud-flaps diffuse really wet roads, so riding companions have nothing to moan about. Stainless steel stays and hardware are premium grade, the sort that sniggers at salty slush.

Regularly hustling along washboard surfaces, vibration hasn't been an issue and I've only needed to nip fasteners tight once.

Reflex decals look charcoal by day and are useful enough but 3M pin-stripes are far more effective. Therefore, consider adding some aftermarket stickers, especially if you frequently negotiate unlit roads/junctions.

Given their length, a little care's still required to avoid grounding when manoeuvring bikes vertically in tight spaces such as side gates, alleys or storing. That said; this is nothing compared with some extra-long touring models.

Verdict

Great quality guards but slightly disappointed by reflective detailing and lack of security stays as standard