What comes to mind when you hear the word mudguard? Probably mud and the classic mudguard shape, with the tabs on the sides, which is what the Riesel Design kol:oss looks like. As usual for Riesel, the mudguard is offered with many different designs, from subtle to colourful. But can the classic mudguard keep up with the larger models on test?
For an overview of the test fleet head to the group test: The best Mudguard 2024 – 8 models in review
German brand Riesel Design are known for their minimalist mudguards and wide variety of colourful designs. They now also offer a large selection of matching frame protectors, top caps, clothing and premium carbon components from Beast adorned in your choice of Riesel artwork. Their front mudguards are available in 2 different sizes: the smaller schlamm:PE, and the kol:oss, which measures 280 mm. This makes it longer than the RockShox Fender, but shorter than the other models in the test field. It tipped our digital scale at 51 g. Priced at € 14.95, the German made mudguard is the most affordable option in our test field.
Fitting the Riesel Design kol:oss mudguard
The mudguard is packaged flat and bent into shape when attaching it to the fork bridge. Like the shape of the mudguard, Riesel Design also stick to the classic method of attaching it with four cable ties, which are included in the scope of delivery. One cable tie is placed around each of the lower legs, and the other two cable ties are used to attach the mudguard to the fork bridge. It’s quick to do, but not designed to be put on and taken off on a frequent basis. Moreover, the mudguard doesn’t sit completely tight, which means that it moves and rubs against the fork, eventually leaving unsightly scratches. We recommend resorting to a bit of protective film or padding to mitigate this issue.
The Riesel Design kol:oss mudguard on the trail
As with the other models on test, the mudguard was subjected to a workshop wiggle test before we hit the trails. The kol:oss mudguard sits firmly on the fork, so we don’t hear any rattling on the trails. However, we’re more interested in how much protection the little mudguard can offer on the muddiest trails. Compared to the shorter mudguard from RockShox, the kol:oss fends off more mud, which in addition to its length is also thanks to the small peak that extends in front of the fork bridge. On the other hand, the equally light Slicy Enduro mudguard offers slightly more protection than the Riesel Design, which is mainly due to its greater length. Large mudguards like the SKS MUDROCKER provide noticeably better protection, but tackling muddy conditions with the kol:oss is still much better than doing so without a mudguard. As with the rest of the test, it does a good job of protecting the fork seals.
Conclusion on the Riesel Design kol:oss
The Riesel Design kol:oss is a classic, small mudguard that is relatively unobtrusive – unless you choose one of the more colourful designs. The larger mudguards in the test field provide noticeably better protection than that of the Riesel Design. However, like all small mudguards, it certainly is better than nothing, which makes it a good choice for those who want to leave the mudguard on their bike all year round and don’t have a fork that’s compatible with one of the bolt-on alternatives.
Tops
- choice of colourful designs
- affordable
Flops
- can’t keep up with the best in terms of protection
- scratches the fork lowers
For more information, visit riesel-design.com
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
