It is known that according to the use of winter tires, motorists are divided into two polar groups. One is categorically that only spikes on ice “will save the world.” The other argues for friction and calls stud users “wall chasers”, referring to the tracks milled on the asphalt with such tires.
The aspect ratio is about one to four. That is, admirers of non-studded tires make up about 20 percent, while about 80% prefer studded tires. And this is not only in Russia – in the Scandinavian countries the situation is about the same, although there the share of those loyal to friction tires is approaching 30 percent.
The motorists around me, who after much persuasion I was able to switch to friction tires to try, invariably said they no longer wanted to go back to itchy spikes. Yes, they need to drive a little more cautiously on ice in near-zero temperatures. But they enjoy the low noise level all winter and are not afraid of clean asphalt..
Origin of prejudice
Critics of studless tires often rely on prejudice or emotional comments from other people. Although there are indeed a number of factors that must be taken into account when choosing “spike or clutch”.
Special operating conditions
Think of hilly or mountainous terrain, where you often have to overcome slippery climbs and descents. As well as climatic conditions (excessive humidity and near-zero temperature), which contribute to prolonged ice build-up on roads. In such regions, the choice of claws should be carefully considered.
Velcro Type Selection
As you know, friction tires are divided into 2 types. The first is “Europeans” for “warm” winters, designed for driving on wet asphalt and slush. The second – “Scandinavians” for harsh winter conditions, locked in snow and ice.
The difficulty is that there are no special designations to distinguish them. Only with sufficient experience is it possible to determine exactly to which type a particular model belongs. It makes sense that drivers who have traveled on “Europeans” through the harsh winter are disappointed and haphazardly project their negative impression onto all the friction clutches.
Desire to save at all costs
Non-studded winter tires are a complex product that requires serious research and advanced technologies to create. So, such shoes can not be a “penny”. When buying a downright cheap clutch from an unknown manufacturer, be aware that performance (especially grip on ice) is likely to be very modest.
Experts “Behind the wheel” tested eight “Scandinavians” – expensive and cheaper – on snow and ice. The test has been published in Za Rulem magazine no. 9/2022 and will be published on the website shortly. Come in more often!
- Universal tires do not exist: winter and all-season tires are balanced differently.
- “Driving” can also be read on Viber.
Source: Z R
