What comes to mind when you hear the word fender? Probably mud and the classic fender shape with the tabs on the sides, that’s what the Riesel Design kol:oss looks like. As usual from Riesel, the mudguard is offered in many different designs, from subtle to colorful. But can the classic mudguard keep up with the larger test models?
You can find an overview of the test fleet in the comparison test: The best Fender 2024 – 8 models in the test
The German brand Riesel Design is known for its minimalist mudguards and wide variety of colorful designs. They now also offer a wide selection of matching Beast frame protectors, top caps, apparel and premium carbon components decorated with your choice of Riesel artwork. Their front fenders are available in two different sizes: the smaller schlamm:PE and the kol:oss, which measures 280mm. This makes it longer than the RockShox Fender, but shorter than the other models in the test field. The weight on our digital scale was 51 g. With a price of €14.95, the mudguard made in Germany is the cheapest variant in our test field.
Matches the Riesel Design kol:oss mudguard
The mudguard is packed flat and bent into shape when attached to the fork bridge. As with the shape of the mudguard, Riesel Design sticks to the classic fastening method with four cable ties, which are included in the scope of delivery. One cable tie is placed around each lower leg, the other two cable ties are used to attach the mudguard to the fork bridge. It’s quick, but it’s not intended for frequent putting on and taking off. In addition, the mudguard is not completely secure, which means that it moves and rubs against the fork, which ultimately leaves unsightly scratches. We recommend using a protective film or padding to mitigate this problem.
The Riesel Design kol:oss mudguard on the trail
As with the other test models, the fender was subjected to a workshop wobble 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 small mudguard can provide on the muddiest trails. Compared to the shorter RockShox mudguard, the kol:oss fends off more mud, which is thanks not only to its length but also to the small peak that extends in front of the fork bridge. On the other hand, the equally lightweight Slicy Enduro mudguard offers slightly more protection than the Riesel design, mainly due to its longer length. Large mudguards like the SKS MUDROCKER offer noticeably better protection, but tackling muddy conditions with the kol:oss is still much better than without a mudguard. As with the rest of the test, it protects the fork seals well.
Conclusion on the Riesel Design kol:oss
The Riesel Design kol:oss is a classic, small mudguard that is relatively inconspicuous – unless you opt for one of the more colorful designs. The larger mudguards in the test field offer noticeably better protection than those of the Riesel Design. However, like all small fenders, it’s definitely better than nothing, making it a good choice for anyone who wants to keep the fender on the bike all year round and doesn’t have a fork that’s compatible with one of the bolt-on fenders Alternatives.
Tops
- Selection of colorful designs
- affordable
Flops
- cannot compete with the best when it comes to protection
- Scratches on the bottom of the fork
For more information visit riesel-design.com
For an overview of the group test: 8 mudguards in comparison
All mudguards in the test: FOX fender | Mucky Nutz MugGuard Long | Mudhugger EVO Bolt On | Trickle design kol:oss stealth | RockShox ZEB fender | Slicy Enduro/DH long mudguard | Zefal Deflector FM30 | SKS MUDROCKER FRONT
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Words: Sebastian Dirscherl Photos: Simon Kohler
