chainguard

Hub gears are low-maintenance, so are perfect for jobbing cyclists, as is the chainguard, which protects your calves from the bike's oiliest bits.

On the road: Cooper T250 Aintree bicycle Helen Pidd 2010

I know what you're really wondering at this point, and the answer is, "Yes, it does have an integrated chainguard tab:"

BSNYC Product Review: Walmart's Mongoose Cachet "Fixed-Speed" Bicycle BikeSnobNYC 2010

Time to go to the eye doctor -- for a second there, I thought the BSNYC just suggested I add a chainguard to my bike.

Coming Apart at the Hems: Excessive Panting BikeSnobNYC 2009

If you're having a problem with greasy and shredded cuffs, why not install a chainguard of some kind?

Coming Apart at the Hems: Excessive Panting BikeSnobNYC 2009

He's also kept the chainguard on, taking advantage of both its protective and aero properties by integrating it with the translucent blue fairing.

The Pinch Test: Indignities of Spring BikeSnobNYC 2009

However, if you autograph the Scattante chainguard I'd happily "curate" it on my shelf of used cylcling celebrity, next to Marthy Nothstein's stem, Fred Rodriguez's water bottle and Bobby Julich's fork.

Coming Apart at the Hems: Excessive Panting BikeSnobNYC 2009

I still have the chainguard that came on my Scattante.

Coming Apart at the Hems: Excessive Panting BikeSnobNYC 2009

My wife pro-dealed an SE Lager and it came with that exact same chainguard.

BSNYC Product Review: Scattante Empire State Courier BikeSnobNYC 2009

And, to remain on-topic, if you're a guy and riding a bike without a chainguard and thus have to roll up your right pants leg, is it acceptable to wear patterned socks?

Richer than the bees are in honey 2006

Hub gears also mean a chainguard can be fitted which helps prevent dirty trousers or socks when commuting.

The Earth Times Online Newspaper 2010