Wilsons Sandbox

--- In DSN_KLR650@yahoogroups.com, Alan L Henderson wrote:

> > Matt Smith wrote: > > Any ideas on how these puppies perform in the winter? > > > > I need a new back tire before I start hitting the roads out here > > > I just got my set of 606s yesterday late but I plan to put automotive > style studs in before trying them in the ice and snow. > Alan A13 Iowa >

Alan, If you are going to be riding on the street in Iowa, you will be riding on clear pavement most of the time. Rather than going to the expense and trouble of studding up the whole tire, I would suggest the judicious use of ice screws. On a D606, some small pentagonal knobs at the outer edges alternate with larger square knobs set slightly inboard. I would suggest a couple hundred gold screws, one for each of the square knobs. That will be enough to break the glaze and allow you to hook up on glare ice or hardpack. The center rows of knobs will run better on pavement without screws. For snow over hardpack, drop tire pressures enough to get the screws down more easily. I haven't tried the D606s in winter myself, as I would prefer to make holes in a cheaper tire like a K270. Use screws at least 1/2" long, longer if you think the depth of the knobs will permit. Half-inchers will stay in pretty well on the street; anything shorter will spit out. As always in the winter, ride easy, avoid traffic, and allow plenty of room to stop and maneuver.