Slipnot Bicycle Traction System
www.slipnottraction.com - Price: 100 euros (per set) - Weight: 884 grams (per set)
The Slipnot chains would look great as neck jewellery for the (almost) metal band of the same name. Mounted on the bike, however, they are intended to provide better traction, especially in the snow. Similar to a snow chain on a car, the Bicycle Traction System is placed over the tyre and closed using two threads. Chain links running across the tyre ensure good propulsion in the snow. On icy tracks, however, the ride is more like a slide. Slipnot chains are specialists for special conditions. The all-round winter cyclist is better off using spiked tyres.
Kenda Klondike Wide
www.messingschlager.com - Sizes 26 x 2.1" - Price 54,90 Euro - Number of spikes 252 - Weight 1215 g
Although it only says 2.1", the Klondike Wide is a lot wider. The good control in curves and the good traction provide plenty of speed on ice. And this despite the lack of studs in the centre lugs. As a result, the tyre rolls a little more smoothly on asphalt than the "fully studded" competition and also cuts a decent figure off-road. At 55 euros, the price of this good winter all-rounder is quite favourable.
Traction on ice: 5 out of 6 stars
Lateral support: 5 out of 6 stars
Schwalbe Ice Spiker
www.schwalbe.de - Sizes 26 x 2.1" - Price 79,90 Euro - Number of spikes 361 - Weight 680 g
The Ice Spiker is the tried and tested classic. It offers grip in all situations and can also be manoeuvred quickly around bends on ice. With 361 sharpened spikes, the tyre claws confidently into the ice and ensures an extremely safe ride. Thanks to the embedding of the spikes in a lightweight aluminium base, the weight is very low at just 680 grams. The off-road performance is also good. On tarmac, it is loud and sluggish.
Traction on ice: 6 out of 6 stars
Lateral support: 6 out of 6 stars
What you need to know about studded tyres
For whom are studded tyres useful?
Firstly, for everyday cyclists who want to be out and about on their bikes all year round. They benefit from the immense grip. But also for bikers who want safety in unexpectedly icy conditions.
Do studded tyres also work in mud?
The tread pattern of these tyres often resembles that of a mud tyre. The lugs are relatively long and open for sufficient grip on wet surfaces and have good self-cleaning properties.
Can a special winter tyre with a soft rubber compound replace a good studded tyre?
No, because soft mixtures often harden significantly from around five degrees plus. This is called glazing temperature. During longer journeys, this causes fracture edges in the rubber compound that resemble broken glass.
How high is the wear on studded tyres?
Studded tyres should always be run in well and carefully. The spikes are then very well anchored. The tungsten carbide core has virtually no wear, even on tarmac.
What makes a good studded tyre?
A certain minimum number of studs and their arrangement, not too far off centre. In addition, a sufficiently hard rubber compound so that the spikes cannot work their way into the tread.
