christogold

I’ve been using 28mm 4 seasons since this spring for their puncture resistance and grip since I found gatorskins to be seriously lacking traction in the rain. I usually switch to 32mm winter tires (like top contact or something similar). But was wondering if 4 seasons are any good in light snow and ice? I ride in NYC and rarely encounter snow deeper than an inch, it’s mostly the occasional frozen puddle and melting slush you deal with here.

Anyone have any experience on using 4 seasons in winter? They don’t look like they can handle snow but looks can be deceiving.

Thanks,

MinnMan

Depends on your skillz, I would say. I like 4 seasons and they are pretty grippy for road tires. They are not ideal at all for snow and ice. But I have ridden in light wintery conditions on 4 seasons 25s at low psi and lived to tell the tale.

If "light snow and ice" means that you hit patches of it but are riding mostly on dry pavement and that you are sure you'll hit the icy patches at the right speed and level of control, then 4 seasons are as good as you'll get for road tires - again, assuming you run at the lowest pressure you can manage without being in danger of pinch flats.

But if the ice is widespread, you'll want wider tires, studs, or both.

StupidlyBrave 

I have 4 seasons mounted on my "spare" wheelset, but frankly it is entirely because I want to avoid fixing a flat in the cold where I am not dressed for stationary activity levels.

randallr

I was out today on my Conti GP 4 season tires. I was on dry concrete, with a few spots with ice 2mm thick mixed with snow 4mm thick on perfectly flat, smooth surfaces. I could ride over them fine if no turning or slowing, but a little torque applied to the drive wheel through my legs and zip - wheel spin.

The "4 season" designation must be for some place along the beach on the Riviera.

PaulRivers

"4 Seasons" are really 3 seasons or "4 seasons if you're in hawaii".
They're better at 40f than other tires but they're not designed for subfreezing or ice.

rumrunn6

we can stall all we want. but when winter comes, it doesn't wait for for us

MinnMan

As Continental is a German brand, maybe it's 4 seasons in Germany? Yeah, it snows there, but the ground is bare through much of the winter in many parts.