So, you want to cycle through snow and ice, huh? Well, buckle up, because you're about to take a slippery ride into the world of winter cycling. Spoiler alert: the right tyres can mean the difference between feeling like a cycling god or taking a tumble like a confused penguin.
You’ve probably seen those studded tyres that look like they’re made for a tank, and thought, “Do I really need these?” Let me answer that: Yes—and here’s why.
What Are Studded Tyres?
Imagine this: you’re gliding over ice like an Olympic skater on wheels. That’s the magic of studded tyres. They’re heavy (we’re talking 1kg per tyre, which is basically the equivalent of a small brick strapped to your bike), but they are worth every gram.
Pros: Studded tyres have sharp steel studs embedded in them, and they'll grip the ice like a toddler clutching their favourite toy. When the roads are as slippery as a greased slide, these bad boys will keep you from hitting the deck.
Cons: On dry tarmac? Prepare for a symphony of noise—imagine riding over gravel or chewing on space candy. Plus, they’re heavy, so you might feel like you're pedalling a tank rather than a bike. Oh, and if there’s deep snow, those studs might not quite reach the ice, and you might start fishtailing.
Tyre Pressure: Lower the pressure for maximum stud contact. More studs biting into ice = less chance of you looking like a cartoon character on a banana peel. When it's not icy, crank up the pressure to avoid stud loss.
What Are Winter Tyres?
Winter tyres are like the sensible shoes of the cycling world. They offer solid grip on wet, slushy roads and throw in some extra puncture protection—because let’s be honest, the last thing you want to do in the middle of a cold, wet ride is fix a flat.
Pros: These tyres are great for those mushy, slushy days when it’s too wet to go full-on studded. They’ll handle wet roads, puddles, and the occasional frosty patch without you having to scream in frustration.
Cons: Don’t expect them to perform magic on ice. Winter tyres are more like the reliable, steady friend who shows up on time but doesn't win any races.
Grip and Puncture Protection: Winter tyres have fancy tread patterns designed to push water away from the tyre—kind of like a superpower. And thanks to their puncture resistance, you won’t be calling for a tow truck just to replace a tube in the freezing cold.
The Worst Tyre for Winter?
A performance road tyre designed for racing? Absolute disaster. Unless you're into that whole "sliding into a bush" thing, in which case, go ahead. These tyres are built for sunny, dry roads, and they’ll make you wish you were back home with a cup of hot cocoa when the snow hits.
Also, if your tyres are so old they’ve developed cracks or hardened, you’re basically riding on rubber bands. They’re begging for a puncture, and probably a tantrum when you least expect it.
Should You Fork Out for Studded or Winter Tyres?
Studded Tyres: If your winter ride is more “Arctic Expedition” and less “relaxed countryside cycle,” studded tyres are your best bet. They’re heavy, noisy, and look like they were designed to survive the apocalypse—but they’ll keep you upright when everyone else is sliding around like Bambi on ice.
For off-road we recommend the Schwalbe Ice Spiker Pro and for on road we recommend the Schwalbe Marathon Winter Plus.
Winter Tyres: If your biggest concern is wet leaves and the occasional puddle, then winter tyres will do just fine. They’re lighter, quieter, and more affordable than studded tyres. Plus, you won’t feel like you’re riding a tank through a snowstorm.
There are lots of options for winter tyres so pop in to see us and we will figure out what works best for you.
Conclusion
Cycling in winter doesn’t have to be a death wish. Whether you go for studded tyres (the snow warrior option) or winter tyres (the sensible choice), investing in the right gear means you’ll be riding confidently through wet, cold, slushy, or icy roads. Just remember to check your tyre pressure—because no one likes the sound of a flat when it’s freezing outside.
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