So I have a new bike. My new bike criteria was for a 4-season, commuter, explorer bike, I chose the Genesis Croix de Fer with Topeak rack, SKS mudguards and Ortlieb panniers. Last night I rode it back from the shop in the rain and with a rucsac on my back (the panniers have yet to arrive from Wiggle) and it was a good experience, my first with mudguards. Need to make some adjustments, and swap the SPD peddles from my MTN bike, but looking forward to taking it on trips soon.