Anyone else managing to get any trail riding in?

Thanks to a set of DIY ice spike tires based on advice from MJ (thanks Mike!) I've actually managed to get out ont the trails and even a little bit of singletrack today. Rodde for a couple hours near hochspeyer and KTOWN east area... much fun. My DIY tires did fantastci,a nd I'll detail more on that later or tomorrow.

Anybody else manage to get any trail riding in this mess?

Nope, my bike is still at Frank's for warranty work and I'm in awaiting parts status for the 29er. But I'm thinking this is a cheap and east DIY way to get snow tires:

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Please, share the DIY tires. I resorted to a run today just to get on the trails but would really rather be on the bike.

Hmm...that looks interesting Mark. I think the cold and contact with the ground would cause them to break pretty fast though.

spookyload wrote:Hmm...that looks interesting Mark. I think the cold and contact with the ground would cause them to break pretty fast though.

I'm sure if you carry a pocket full of extras you'll be able to make it through the ride...

Sorry but I will stick to the trainer or roads until the trail is better!

Ok illpost instructions shortly...(or maybe tomorrow...)

Tomorrow is OK, I won't be riding much tonight...

spookyload wrote:Hmm...that looks interesting Mark. I think the cold and contact with the ground would cause them to break pretty fast though.

Not sure about the zip tie job, but my DIY (or rather Mike's) has proven through four hours of riding so far.

Jonesy wrote:

spookyload wrote:Hmm...that looks interesting Mark. I think the cold and contact with the ground would cause them to break pretty fast though.

Not sure about the zip tie job, but my DIY (or rather Mike's) has proven through four hours of riding so far.

I'm with Sharp...I'll stick with the Trainer!!!

Glad that's working for you Jonesy! I rode my last set for three seasons in AK & UT and gave them to a friend when I left - should hold up well.

We will have to ride again soon.

Rode up at the Castle a few days ago.
You guys just gotta run some meaty tires!

Single track was off the hook! It was mofo'ing cold though!

I got out yesterday. It was a mess. I ended up sticking to the roads and bike paths.

I try to get out every weekend in addition to commuting to work in Mannheim (40km round trip)

Proper tire choice is essential for having an enjoyable ride in the snow. Zip tied/spiked tires are good for getting grip on ice and icy, packed snow. For softer snow, wide tires will help you float over the snow while large gaps in the tread will prevent the snow from sticking onto the tire.

Personally, on my Stumpy FSR I run a big ole' 2.4" Fat Albert out back with a skinny 2.0" Dirty Dan in front. The Dirty Dan has very aggressive tread blocks and being so skinny it's able to sink down and bite in.

I rode a little yesterday and two things happened. One, I left my lungs on the Hermersberg hill, and two, I froze my toes off. Because of this, I think I need thicker socks or newer shoes. The new winter jacket worked real well. I repelled cold like bear skin. The sun came out for a little while, so I had to take advantage and get out there. I had a good time, but I cannot wait until Spring.