Two main parts enhance the traction and handling of a snowmobile, studs, and carbides. But what is the difference?
Studs are small metal screw-type projections that are added to the track of a snowmobile. On the other hand, carbides or carbide runners are a type of wear-bars that are installed below the skies. They both dramatically improve the steering, darting and traction of a snowmobile on hard snow and ice.
Are carbide runners worth spending on them?
Carbide runners are made up of carbide steel, which is the strongest one. Not only do they last long, but they also work better than regular hard bars. With regular wear bars, it is hard to steer a snowmobile on hard snow or ice. You can use regular hard bars such as this one by Snowstuff, but they do not last longer than a month. You might end up with a broken ski or a bent one, or you might even crash into snow due to steering problems.
To prevent such situations, always use carbide runners. I always recommend Woody’s carbide runners, like this one from Amazon. They cost about $60, which is more than two times the hard-bars. But they last much longer and are worth spending that much. They provide a better steering experience in wide trail conditions.
Why do you need both of them?
I have explained why carbide runners are important. Also, I have written an article on the importance of studs, you can read it here. Both have their own job. Without studs, you will need to push more gasoline to the engine to accelerate, and still, it will not be smooth. Also (without studs), when applying the brakes, the snowmobile stops at a much longer distance. Studs provide the required grip and traction that makes your snowmobile accelerate smoothly and stop quickly.
Similarly, the carbide runners help to steer on hard snow or ice. Regular wear bars do not help much, and they also wear soon. While riding, if you need to steer your snowmobile and you are not able to do that. You might crash into something. That makes the carbide runners very important for safety.
My last pair of carbide runners lasted about two seasons. You might get more or less that depends upon how much you ride and where you ride. On pavements and hard surfaces, regular hard bars do not last much, but carbide runners not only do a better job but also last a long time.
In the end…
Both are different, and both are necessary. Studs are used to get the required traction, and carbides are used to increase handling or steering. If you still have any questions about carbide runners, you can ask me in the comments.