Snow Chains From Lidl!
 

Hi,

Here in the UK Lidl have just started some 'winter ready' deals, one of which is a pair of snow chains for £19.99!

I purchased a set of the smallest size (size 70) and found that they are a very good fit on the back wheel of my R1200GS. (with a tiny adjustment)

I've purchased Aldi/Lidl stuff before (compressor, etc) and found it to be fair quality considering the price so I bought these to take on the Elefantentreffen in Feb.

As they'll only be fitted as a last resort and for short periods I begrugded spending £100+ for a Wunderlich set. These seem tough enough for the odd times they'll get used, plus a single chain doesn't take up much space.

Anyone have any experience with snow chains on a bike or snow riding advice?

Cheers! Ben

snow chains
 

Read the link very carefully.

A Guide to Winter Riding - Minutes of a Motorcycle Addict

lot of really hard-earned advice there.

A big spray can of "tire cleaner", to get some advantage from the friction of squeaky clean rubber. Pack as light as you dare, every gram counts when the bike slides, and you try and foot it upright.

Chains I have only used on cars and trucks, slow speed - drive anywhere.

Remember it is the warm air trapped in your clothes/sleepingbag that keep you alive. Cotton clothes, especially socks and underwear, are "forbidden" because they absorb and retain moisture and steal your body heat.

Lastly, look up "wind chill factor" and prepare yourself for the higher speeds of most of your journey.

Have a great trip -

Peter, in Oslo

Hi Peter,

Thanks for the link, a great site! I've never seen that one before.

Thanks for the comments too, I'm sure it'll be a great trip!

Cheers, Ben

Mud chains
 

I got back to Staffordshire from the Elephant on Tuesday. Yesterday, I saw the snow chains in Lidl. I wonder if you used them and how they performed in mud.
It was my first time and despite the lack of snow, I absolutely loved it.
Cheers, Rupert