Autumn appears to have finally arrived, and with it comes fender season. The fender experts at Portland Design Works have created an incredibly cool front fender designed for fat tire bikes, but one that also looks perfectly at home on a mountain bike. It’s called the Mud Shovel 6.5, and it’s ready for action.
The Mud Shovel 6.5 isn’t a new product; we first spotted it all the way back at FrostBike 2013. Back then, it featured a large, high-contrast signature of Dave Gray, a former Surly product designer. Dave helped PDW develop this fender and was among the first to see the potential of wider tires.
Refreshed Design, Improved Coverage
The Mud Shovel 6.5 has recently received some updates, and it remains a fantastic option for front tire coverage without compromising tire clearance. The updated version is now slightly wider and a bit longer, increasing its protective reach. However, if it proves a little too large for your setup, you can easily trim it down with a pair of scissors – the fender even features a printed cut line at the front.
The graphics are now much more subdued, featuring a classic tonal topographic pattern. At the time of writing, the camo colorway is on promotion for just $12.
Unique Down Tube Mounting
Unlike most front fenders that mount to the fork crown, the Mud Shovel 6.5 conveniently attaches to your bike’s down tube using adjustable rubber straps.
Its increased length and width work to maximize protection from slop, mud, snow, and dust. Will this fender keep your feet dry? No, but it will significantly reduce the amount of spray hitting your upper body.
Key Features & Matching Rear Option
The Mud Shovel 6.5 fender fits most traditional down tubes. If you want a matching rear fender, consider pairing it with the Mud Shovel 6.5 Rear Fender.
Specifications & Value
- Retail Price: $18
- Front fender measures 203mm wide and 622mm long (8 inches x 24.5 inches)
- Extra-long and wide design blocks snow, water, and sand
- Mount keeps the fender super stable and makes installation easy
- Constructed from lightweight, tough material for long-lasting durability
- Backed by a lifetime PDW warranty