Full-sus linkage guard.

The DIY “Linkage guard”

This is a very technical piece of equipment and is hand crafted to custom fit my frame and geometry out of high density butyl rubber. (Secret family recipe 😉) .....

Well, kind of...😉. It’s the DIY repurposing of the good old inner tube!

Here’s all the steps to make it:

Firstly, measure the distance from the bottom of the chainstays/bb area to the dropper post crown:

(This is my completed gaiter)

Then, cut the measured length of tube and cut the tube in half down one of the moulding lines. (see below) Add extra length to the bottom to allow for wraps around each chain stay and swing arm brace.

Make 2x 2 inch cuts for the chain stay wrappings either side. The central section will wrap around the swing arm brace.

Wrap/attach the base to the swing arm brace with cable ties.

Then wrap/attach the side sections to the chain stays...

Cable tie the Chain stay flaps. X2. Cut the cable ties flush and push underneath/out of the way of the cranks/chainring. 👇👆

Attach the top of the gaiter to the seatpost with a cable tie making sure to add/maintain a little tension to the material before fixing it in place. 👇

.Now find a suitable middle position to fix to the seat tube.👇

This will shape the gaiter and increase the tyre gap.

Once the wheel is fitted, it's time to make any trims or adjustments. Then, remove the wheel and coat the whole thing in some silicon spray.

⚠️WARNING⚠️

Do not spray the silicon spray near the bike, instead, I recommend to use a small sponge soaked in it so as to avoid any over spray onto any of the braking components and tyres!

I recommend Muc-Off silicon shine 🤩. This will instantly repel any water/mud and if you add some to the frame and you’ll have the easiest post ride cleaning session ever! (see below)

⚠️WARNING⚠️

Do not spray the silicon spray near the bike, instead, applying with a small sponge will stop any overspray onto any of the braking components and tyres!

Now GO TEST!

This is a mid ride photo, I really tried to get the bike dirty but as you can see, the silicon shine worked it's magic!

(This is my post ride wash, the bike hardly got any mud on it!)

You will need:

* Old wide MTB inner tube.

* Scissors

* Measuring tape

* Silicon lube (I recommend Muc-off)

* Cable ties

Disclaimer:

This is a personal choice of mine over the use of a rear mudguard. It is custom fitted to my Whyte T-130 so you will have to check your own bike for compatibility and you may have to alter the design to fit your bike. As stated above, if you are using the silicon spray, it is important that you do not spray it near the bike, instead, applying with a small sponge will stop any overspray onto any of the braking components and tyres!