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I'd it possible to purchase 16" studded tires? I have an old Dahon I use as a winter bike, and I'd like to replace the tires with proper snow tires if this is possible. If not, has anyone here successfully made studded tires from smaller-wheeled knobbies?

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3 Answers

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The best thing to do is make your own studded tires from the old tires you have. You can buy roofing nails for very cheap, and put lots of studs on the tire (most commercially available studded tires don't have that many studs).

Push the nails through from the inside of the tire, wherever you want them. It's a good idea to put some on the rolling surface, and some on the sides for cornering. Once you have placed all your nails, put a layer (or two) of duct tape over the heads of the nails to protect the tube. You'll probably need to trim the nails down to the desired length with metal clippers. That's all there is to it!

EDIT: I have had luck with nails in the past, but on looking around at studded tire designs online, I realize that screws may in fact be a better option, as they will better resist backing out, and would be easier to replace. Scroll down on this page for DIY instructions.

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I'm a little concerned with having razor-sharp things pointing out of my tire, particularly when taking the bike on the train during rush hour. Are commercially made studded tires pointy as well? – Neil Fein Sep 4 '10 at 18:17
I once DIY'd a pair of sneakers for running on ice using small screws and will attest that they are indeed dangerous... – darkcanuck Sep 4 '10 at 19:37
@neilfein They are only sharp if you leave the screw/nail as it is. It's best to use longer nails/screws, then cut them just above the tire. Then they will be flat on the end, and if you use the tires they dull rather quickly. Obviously be careful mounting them, but they shouldn't be a hazard. Definitely not "razor sharp," at least. – kevins Sep 4 '10 at 21:07
Thanks. I'd still like to see if studs are available commercially (I've searched and haven't been able to find them), but if not, rolling my own is the way to go. – Neil Fein Sep 4 '10 at 21:30
I've used screws to build my own winter tires lots. They work great. – curtismchale Sep 5 '10 at 16:49
up vote 2 down vote

I have two links for you:

First you can by Schwalbe Ice Spiker tires at MEC in Canada (The reviews are quite favorable).

Here is a list of different studded tires on the market.

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Thanks, but I'm specifically asking about tires for 16" wheels. – Neil Fein Sep 9 '10 at 4:55
Ooops, sorry I misread 16 as 26. – sixtyfootersdude Sep 9 '10 at 5:05
up vote 1 down vote

The best option is to make your own tires as previously stated.

Since you don't like the idea of using nails or screws as studs, (which I agree with), try using pop rivets instead.

It is more time consuming, but they work better, are more durable, and will stay in place better than a nail or screw.

Use a small, sharp drill, usually 1/8", and drill through the knobs of the tire from the inside of the casing.

Select a pop rivet which will just protrude from the knob of the tire. Stainless steel is most durable. Place 2-4 rivets approximately every 4 inches around the tire. (On a 16 inch tire, 2 inches might be better.)

Fill the divot created by the compression of the rivet on the inside of the tire with silicon. That prevents the back of the rivet from popping the tube when installed.

I hope this helps.

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