Why do modern mudguards have the stays on the outside?

[Chris S]

Why do modern mudguards have the stays on the outside?
Traditional ones have the stays on the inside, they look much neater.

 

[Dec66]

Because often the clearances between the wheel/tyres and the frame on modern bikes are so tight that they need to go on the outside.

...is my guess.

 

[Gravity Aided]

I think it may have to do with convenience,as well as some designs have quick release hardware in case you catch up a twig or something.

 

[MichaelW2]

SKS/ESGE mudguards have the stay brackets on the inside.
There are a slew of clip-on 'guards designed for racebikes which lack eyelets and have close clearances. Compared to bolt-on versions, they are not very good.
1970s style 'guards are not adjustable for clearance.

 

[User482]

Why do modern mudguards have the stays on the outside?
Traditional ones have the stays on the inside, they look much neater.

You get less spray as the water can run down the inside without any obstacle.