The mudguards by Mudhugger are proven classics in the MTB scene. We put the new bolt-on version through the wringer in our group test, bolted directly into the fork bridge instead of relying on Velcro or cable ties. It’s the most expensive mudguard on test, but it promises to be compatible with a wide range of forks. Is that enough to beat the competition?
For an overview of the test fleet head to the group test: The best Mudguard 2024 – 8 models in review
Mudhugger are best known for the size of their mudguards. It is no wonder that the company hail from the rainy islands of the UK, where the mudguards are designed and made. Measuring a whopping 510 mm, the EVO Bolt-On is the second longest mudguard on test after the Mucky Nutz, and at 127 g it’s also the heaviest. If you feel it’s a little too long, there’s a shorter version available, too. The EVO Bolt-On costs € 43.99, making it more expensive than any other model on test. For some forks, you’ll also need an adapter, which is priced between € 1.99 and € 8.99, depending on the fork. If you want to buy the mudguard for your RockShox ZEB, for example, you’ll have to add another € 5.99. Owners of a FOX 36 or 38 don’t need an additional adapter. To find out whether the mudguard will fit on your fork and which adapter you need, you can check out the table on the Mudhugger website. If your fork isn’t compatible with any of the bolt-on adapters, you can also buy the Mudhugger as a Ziptie version for € 37.99, which attaches to the fork with cable ties.
Mounting the Mudhugger Evo Bolt-On mudguard
Depending on the fork, the Mudhugger attaches to the fork bridge with either two or three bolts. Apart from the small size of the bolts, which makes them a bit fiddly to screw in, attaching the mudguard is quick and you’ll be ready to hit the trails in no time at all. To prevent the fork lowers from getting scratched, there are two self-adhesive foam pads included in the delivery. You simply stick these to the mudguard wings as instructed.
The Mudhugger EVO Bolt-On mudguard on the trail
When we checked the fit of the mudguard after installing it, we noticed that it moves slightly and doesn’t sit as snugly as the FOX model. This is partly due to the higher weight, and the fact that the bolt-on part only attaches to the fork bridge, and not to the lowers. So it didn’t surprise us that the mudguard rattled slightly on the trail. While the rattling was noticeable, it wasn’t so loud that it distracted us from the trail. However, the mudguard fared brilliantly in terms of protection, always keeping our faces nice and clean even on the muddiest days. The fork seals were well protected, too. Overall, the Mudhugger provides better protection than the SKS MUDROCKER. It was only outperformed by the longer Mucky Nutz.
Conclusion on the Mudhugger EVO Bolt-On mudguard
The Mudhugger is a classic amongst mudguards, and it offers excellent protection. Fitting it is quick, and we’re impressed with the fact that it’s the only mudguard on test that relies solely on bolts while being compatible with various forks. It makes for a clean look without cable ties, though it does rattle slightly. It’s due to this and the price of the Mudhugger EVO Bolt-On that it falls short of being crowned the Best in Test.
Tops
- good protection
- clean look without cable ties
- easy to instal and remove
Flops
- rattles slightly
- most expensive mudguard on test
For more information, visit the Mudhugger website.
For an overview of the group test: 8 mudguards in comparison
All Mudguards in test: FOX Mudguard | Mucky Nutz MugGuard Long | Mudhugger EVO Bolt-On | Riesel Design kol:oss stealth | RockShox ZEB Fender | Slicy Enduro/DH Long mudguard | Zéfal Deflector FM30 | SKS MUDROCKER FRONT
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Words: Sebastian Dirscherl Photos: Simon Kohler
