I got these tires from Fred since he over-bought them. I figured today's ride in some snow would be a good test. I didn't get to mounting the rear tire, but I got the front one on. I had to patch the tube that was going in it so I ran out of time before my 11am shift.
These things are super stiff. I'm not sure how much pressure I got up to, as I used a frame pump since my regular pump went on the frits. But even at, what I assumed was, about 50 psi it was still really stiff. Also, these tires say they are 35C. I've been running my 32 C Bonty hardcases and they seem WAY fatter than the 35s from Innova. Kinda strange.
Anyway, now I see what all the hype is about. With just the front tire being studded, I felt like I was velcroed to the ground, no matter what was on it - hardpack snow, loose fresh snow over hardpack, etc. I couldn't tell if I went over any ice since it had just snowed some. However, once i got onto the flat smooth plowed surface of Center street, the tire played against me. I felt like I was going on a gravel ride. My normal speed of 16-18mph dropped down to 13-14. Which is kinda frustrating when you know it's the tire that's doing it. I could have just as easily ridden both slicks since I only really have a couple blocks of non-treated roads.
Speaking of treated roads, has anyone noticed how much salt is on the roads nowadays? I guess I'm glad since it makes for easier driving when I do that, but man, the drivetrain on my bike is completely orange with rust. I have a heater for the garage, so I really should get it cleaned up. I'm just not looking forward to all the scrubbing I'm going need to do.
18 comments:
Omaha/Douglas County philosophy: why plow when you can just dump sand and salt all over the goddamn place?
When I rode out into the hinterlands a couple of weeks ago, it was very, very obvious where Douglas County ended and Washington began. I went from a sandy, gritty road to an absolutely spotless one. All the way to Arlington.
looks like my jersey's pit stains the day after a Chipotle burrito run
Like I always say... those tires roll like squares.
But they sure take away the concern for unexpected/unseen ice.
Great resistance training too ;-)
Anybody want to actually ride on some gravel this weekend? Going to be nice, but I'll wager the roads will be crap.
Mike, that sounds like an extremely awesome idea.
I may have stuff going on Saturday afternoon, but early morning is just fine. Or anytime on Sunday.
I'm up for an early Saturday ride and possibly an early Sunday ride as well.
Saturday afternoons belong to the family, and I need to be home by 10:30 on Sundays.
Roads may not be too bad. But gravel is fine also.
Now the question is, how are we going to get Mike (who lives way South West) and Bob (who lives way NorthWest) on the same gravel roads at the same time???
Any suggestions? I'll probably ride from my place and meet you guys where ever.
I'll try to chime in tomorrow once I know my schedule for Saturday.
What say ye about meeting up with EB and gang at the down town Blue Line at 11:00 am ish.
I've got the OK (kitchen pass) for some afternoon riding. I may even brake out the Roger for this trip.
That, or we could meet up with the BM folks in the afternoon. I don't think they know what the plan is yet though.
I'm game for whatever but gotta tell me where to be and when...
Bike Master group ride is starting at 12:00 at the BM parking lot.
So it's that or Blue Line at 11:00. What do you think Mike?
I'd like to hang with the EB group at 11am if that's cool. They're going into Iowa which is more new to me than West Omaha. Plus there'll be gravel to ride. Should be fun!
EB is also doing a breakfast meeting at his place. Go to his blog to find out the details.
Sounds good... see you at Blue Line.
Semi-stupid question: I've been downtown only a handful of times... is there parking near the downtown Blue Line? I know I should ride, but really I don't think I want to add 40 miles to the trip...
Gentlemen, my wife is sick and I've been put on little one duty today. Have fun in Iowa, is there a +1 ride early tomorrow?
Bob and I shall discuss that today and get back to you.
there should be +1 ride tomorrow. Odds are that I am in.
Hi Munson:
Somehow I missed this fun post about your studded tire experience. I'd say give them another try sometime when conditions are really bad.
Check out my blog for a photo of the tremendous mess made by my dirty bike at the racks at my office.
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