Sharp end finished

Running a 'naked' front end may look cool - but it can get awful wet in the average UK summer so a quick-detach front muddy was called for.

The aftermarket, none-eBay Sportster lookalike part was surprisingly cheap and with fettling and paint by Carl, looks neat on the bike.

The entire springer assembly was lashed down to replicate the heaviest braking before the fender was positioned - leaving ample leeway for a heavy stop but keeping the muddy as close to the tyre as possible.

I was a little concerned that, while necessary for safety, the full-brake position would leave the front end resembling a cross-country scrambler when the springs were relaxed - but not so, it sits very pleasingly and doesn't spoil the overall lines of the bike.

Sorted then. A bit of good-looking front end cover for the worst a British summer can offer, a pocket-sized Easyriders fabric guard for 'naked' days when showers hit - and an easy-off muddy to make the most of sunshine when it comes...