re: traction systems

[mmathias]

re: traction systems

i did a search, but didn't find anything related to tire traction systems like:

http://www.flextrax.com/
or
http://www.spikes-spiders.com/

these are cheaper alternatives to buying 4 snow tires, and much more convenient than chains.

Question- does anyone have experience using any of these products? The stock rims have sunk lug nuts as well, so the hubcap system of Spikes spiders may not fit correctly either...any thoughts??

 

[goldwing2000]

That sort of thing will help you get out of a shallow ditch or a snow bank but it's not meant for driving down the freeway.

Q: How fast can I drive with the Spikes-Spider traction elements on the tires?
A: They are rated for maximum speed of 30mph. If conditions allow you to drive faster, it is easy to stop and quickly take them off.

How fast can I travel while GoClaws are installed?
We recommend traveling at or below 30 mph (48 km/h) to ensure your safety but. we have tested them to exceed 50 mph (80 km/h) to ensure an adequate margin safety.

Winter-rated tires are for regular driving on snowy and icy roads.

 

[mmathias]

yeah, but by that logic tire chains can't be driven on the freeway either (max speed is 30 MPH with chains).

In tahoe, routes 88 and 89 are often closed to 2wd cars without chains...so I guess my question is: what's better- these systems with all weather tires or snow tires + chains?

swapping tires now would cost me $800...versus $350 with these systems that I don't need new tires for. But, do they work with Mazda 3's.....???

That sort of thing will help you get out of a shallow ditch or a snow bank but it's not meant for driving down the freeway.




Winter-rated tires are for regular driving on snowy and icy roads.

 

[goldwing2000]

You're right. Tire chains can't be driven on the freeway. What's your point?

Winter tires are not meant for assisting you to drive through DEEP snow. They are for getting better traction on more or less level but slippery surfaces, such as roads coated with a thin layer of snow or ice. If you're regularly driving through snow that is six inches deep or more, then maybe you should think about buying something other than a sport-compact car.

That being said, both products do list an application for the tire size of the Mazda3 and I can't think of any reason they wouldn't work.
If you look at the installation pictures for the Spiders, they show them being installed on a vehicle with recessed lug nuts.

As far as your cost comparison, a set of winter tires shouldn't cost you $800. You should be able to get a decent set of winter tires for only a little more than these traction-adders. But as previously mentioned, that won't help you much in super-deep snow. You'll have to figure out where you're doing most of your driving and make your purchases accordingly.