Originally Posted by
Jim from Boston
I keep them at about 65 psi, no matter what the conditions, and I'm a heavy rider too. Probably about 95% of my riding is on dry or wet roads, vs about 5% on icy or hardpack snow. Studded tires are going on this weekend; we had an unseasonable 19*F yesterday, and heavy rain predicted for tomorrow, though warmer temps.
I think the max is 70 psi on the 26x1.75 MWs, which keeps the outer rows of studs off the ground, except when cornering. I run them at around 65-70 if black ice is the concern, and at 40 when needed, which greatly increases traction, as all the studs are engaged and the tire conforms better to irregular surfaces. However, they are noticeably slower at 40 psi, but who's in a hurry?