How much difference to knobblies make in the snow? Dom said that someone told him they grooves just fill up with packed snow and then they are pretty much the same as slicks
The short answer is. It depends on the snow.
The wet heavy stuff you get in the uk will melt/clear a little. So the tread will have an effect I'd say. Given the low snow depth, and presence of slushier snow underneath. Having a tyre that digs in could be a nice idea for milder winter climates. I've found aggressive 40mm tyres function better than low tread 65mm ones. Bonty do some sweet 1.8" mud tyres for those lucky enough to have the clearance.
The interesting thing is that most snow bikers like to put their biggest/grippiest tyre on the rear. In contrast to MTB'rs. I guess you're not putting much cornering force in, when riding in snow. But you still want max forward traction.
I notice that the folks on the fatbike forum are split between those wanting max volume, and minimum PSI, and those wanting max tread size. I guess this is down to differing winter conditions. Or maybe road or trail use.
I like to believe that massive volume, and a few studs will give me the best ride quality and grip possible. I'm excited to find out.
The short answer is. It depends on the snow.
The wet heavy stuff you get in the uk will melt/clear a little. So the tread will have an effect I'd say. Given the low snow depth, and presence of slushier snow underneath. Having a tyre that digs in could be a nice idea for milder winter climates. I've found aggressive 40mm tyres function better than low tread 65mm ones. Bonty do some sweet 1.8" mud tyres for those lucky enough to have the clearance.
The interesting thing is that most snow bikers like to put their biggest/grippiest tyre on the rear. In contrast to MTB'rs. I guess you're not putting much cornering force in, when riding in snow. But you still want max forward traction.
I notice that the folks on the fatbike forum are split between those wanting max volume, and minimum PSI, and those wanting max tread size. I guess this is down to differing winter conditions. Or maybe road or trail use.
I like to believe that massive volume, and a few studs will give me the best ride quality and grip possible. I'm excited to find out.