Track question - to stud or not to stud?

[adkhkr]

I have an 02 Viper with 3500 miles. The track is currently off because it was junk (it was studded). In trying to decide on a new track, I am in a dilemma about whether to go with a 1" track studded, or a 1.25 non studded. My question really is what are all of your experiences without studs. I realize it depends on the riding conditions, I do not enjoy WOT lake runs - I ride groomed trails for the most part. Any and all opinions are greatly appreciated. Thank you.

Jon Doten

 

[thstorms]

I've only ever had a fully studded track......

I read on a carbide website that if you only stud the outside edges of the track it is better for trails because it only makes one scratch like for taking off and stopping and many in the corners where you need it on trails. It in turn allows you to run less carbide so it is more cost efficient to replace the entire wear bar more frequently and always have the steering of brand new wear bars.... they also claimed your track would last longer.......

The beginning of this year I will run no studs and 4" carbide, replacing a track is the perfect time to try a track without studs... you can always put them in but you cant take 'em out!!!

If I dont like it I'll add stud to the outside edge, longer carbide for steering if needed.....etc...

 

[snomofo]

I have an 02 Viper with 3500 miles. The track is currently off because it was junk (it was studded). In trying to decide on a new track, I am in a dilemma about whether to go with a 1" track studded, or a 1.25 non studded. My question really is what are all of your experiences without studs. I realize it depends on the riding conditions, I do not enjoy WOT lake runs - I ride groomed trails for the most part. Any and all opinions are greatly appreciated. Thank you.

Jon Doten

Expect to get all kinds of pros and cons.

As a flat lander, I personally won't ride groomed trails or rivers without them. Stabbing the brake in an icy corner will get you whoa'd sooner plus transfer weight to the skies for increased stearing which has come in handy when avoiding on coming trail hogs.

Many will say to only stud inside the rails because most tear outs occur on the outside or the track can tear at a stud creating a studded flap that takes out a heat exchanger resulting in green snow (been there). Older tee nut style studs would come loose and get shot into a HX or through the mud flap if not torqued properly but predominate push through style studs today don't... they just create a 1" hole when they tear out.

Careful use of the throttle and brake on dry surfaces (concrete, dirt, etc) helps avoid tear outs.

You'll also get differing opinions on the number of studs but the general rule of thumb is at least one stud per horse (i.e. 140 horses = 144 studs).

FWIW - I have 144 carbide tipped 1.075" inside and out on a 1" Aggressor with 10" of carbide up front mainly for durability.

Even though the OEM track is close to 1" (.920"), going to any other aftermarket 1" track will be a huge improvement over what you had. Kinda speaks to the importance of lug design or Yoko's case, lack of design.