Studded tires?

[95ExplorerLtd]

I know these tires are for ice and stuff. But what are the whole stud things? Are they like little spikes or what? Are they strictly for ice or can they be operated on regular roads? Punishing rides? Any pics?

 

[Goober]

The studs are just little pieces of pointed metal designed to grip in ice, but are illegal in most states. Some up north may still use them, but are very restricted for their use. I think they were more common back before the huge advances in tires. Since the radial and all-terrain,..etc.. there hasn't really been a need for them except in some instances. You cannot use them on dry pavement as they will really tear up the road. I have seen them, butthat was long ago. They are probably still made( again, for restricted usage), but I couldn't even tell you when to begin to search.

 

[EB Bauer]

I think the taxi's still use them in seatle. I do know they have a ton moto races on ice with them....those are fun!

 

[sundown]

Well.....

We still use them up here in Vermont......love em! You've gotta have a tire designed to take them. They give you 35% more grip, lateral and linear.....gotta put them on both the front and the back though, otherwise you've got trouble. No laws here banning their use. They do tear up the roads more, no doubt about it. They also lose a bit of grip on wet roads, as the metal tends to skitter across the pavement a bit. Good for the north country, not worth it (or illegal) anywhere else.....

 

[DR264]

Studs

I've used studs on my dirtbike. Actually sheet metal screws work the same and are cheaper. Definetly tell a big difference when they are not in.

 

[Ydnar]

Re: Studs

My dad has 2 sets of tires - with and without studs. He lives at Lake Tahoe. They are a necessity in the winter months. The studs don't last long on dry roads.

 

[CAC91]

Whoever told you that studs are illegal in most states? As far as tearing up roads with studs, thats totally untrue. Metal studs wear out long before asphalt will. By the way, here in Colorado, studded tires or chains are REQUIRED on some roads in the winter. We don't even get that bad of conditions compared to some places!

 

[sundown]

Uh huh....

Well, they ARE illegal in many states, don't know if that means most, but many.....and they DO tear up the roads more, just look at my driveway after one season of studded tire travel and you'll agree. That being said, for the safety advantage on ice, I think they are well worth it, just be carefull in the rain!