How to Make Your Own Studded Bike Tires

For many people living in the northern part of the United States, the use of studded tires on their vehicles in the winter is essential. But not many people use studded tires on their bicycles for everyday use. Mountain bikers and leisure riders use studded tires for traction on steep terrain and for stability in poor weather conditions. The cost of studded tires can be expensive. For people on a budget, making their own studded tires at home will save on costs compared to what retail outlets may charge.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Bike Tires
• Hexagon screws, 3/8"
• Drill
• Tire Liner or Duct Tape

1. Take a new tire and line the inside with either duct tape or a tire liner, and shave the tip of the screw with a wire cutter or any other type of shearing tool to prevent damage to the inner tube. Insert 3/8" hexagon headed screws or any screws with a flat head on the tread blocks of the tire. Tread blocks are the raised part of the tire that provides traction. Insert the screws with a drill until 1/8" protrudes from the tire block. Line the tire with screws roughly two to three inches apart on the outside edges and in the middle. Make sure all studs are flush with the tire block and inserted tightly, Loose screws could fly off while riding and cause serious injury.

2. Insert the inner tube inside the tire and attach the tire to the rim. Make sure the tire is flush with the rim all the way around before inflating with air. Inflate the tire to the number of pounds printed on the side of the tire or according to the instruction manual. Tires that are over inflated could burst while riding causing serious injury.

3. Studded tires can be purchased at most retail outlets that sell bicycles. The average cost of set of bike tires usually runs $15 to $ 20 per tire. The screws would add another $5 to $10 to the cost. Compare that with the average cost of a set of studded tires purchased at a store, you could save $50 to $60 or more, depending on the size of the tire and the manufacturer by making it yourself. The time required to make a studded tire is two to four hours for a set of two