How much do mudguards slow you down ?

[tyred]

I see no point in taking them off as it rains for 363 days of the year. I simply wouldn't buy a frame that doesn't have mudguard clearance.

I don't understand why they would rattle or rub either if of decent quality and fitted properly.

 

[Dogtrousers]

Oddly enough my "winter" bike is the one without mudguards. Because there isn't clearance to fit spiked tyres and guards.