XL Concave Studs
Best traction upgrade for serious winter mountain cyclists.
Conquer icy trails with the 45NRTH XL Concave Studs, engineered for exceptional grip on challenging winter terrain. These studs boast a durable two-piece carbide-aluminum construction and a unique concave design that maximizes surface contact for superior traction. The XL size features a larger carbide tip for enhanced performance, while the aluminum base ensures a lighter weight. Designed for longevity and compatibility with the 45NRTH stud insertion tool, they come in a pack of 100, making them an essential upgrade for serious winter cyclists.
$18.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
671
/ 2105
#671 in Components
Price vs Category Average
-83%
Below average
Construction
Two-piece carbide-aluminum
/ Two-piece carbide-aluminum
Who it's for
- Winter cyclists needing maximum grip on frozen surfaces
- Commuters seeking long-lasting gear for multiple winter seasons
- Aggressive riders wanting better braking and cornering control
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious riders looking for affordable maintenance options
- Performance-focused cyclists sensitive to rotational weight and speed
- Riders without compatible tires or specialized installation tools
Performance breakdown
Ice Traction
Concave carbide tips bite into frozen surfaces with aggressive, reliable precision.
Weight Efficiency
Aluminum base construction keeps rotational mass low for better handling.
Durability
Two-piece carbide design stands up to harsh, abrasive winter riding conditions.
Installation Ease
Requires the proprietary tool for a secure, consistent fitment process.
Surface Contact
The XL tip geometry maximizes ground engagement on slick, technical terrain.
System Compatibility
Perfectly optimized for 45NRTH tires but limited to their specific ecosystem.
Key Specs
Construction
Two-piece carbide-aluminum
Tip Design
Concave
Base Material
Aluminum
Quantity
Pack of 100
Compatibility
45NRTH stud insertion tool
XL Stud Feature
Larger carbide tip diameter
Features
- Maximizes surface contact for superior grip
- Durable two-piece carbide-aluminum construction
- Lightweight aluminum base
- XL size for enhanced traction
- Designed for challenging winter conditions
- Compatible with proprietary insertion tool
What customers say
Customers overwhelmingly praise the 45NRTH XL Concave Studs for delivering exceptional, confidence inspiring traction. The unique concave design significantly outperforms standard studs on ice and hard snow, providing a dramatic increase in stability and control for treacherous winter riding. This superior grip is viewed as a crucial safety benefit. While the carbide tip durability is excellent, the primary friction point is cost. Because many studs are needed, the total investment is substantial, causing some to question the value despite acknowledging the superior performance. Installation requires the specialized tool; users attempting manual fitting often report frustration and subsequent stud loss. For dedicated winter cyclists prioritizing maximum grip, these studs are an essential, high performance component.
Know before you buy
The concave shape creates a sharper edge that bites into ice more effectively than a flat or rounded tip. This design increases surface contact, providing significantly better traction on slick, frozen surfaces.
Yes, these studs are designed to be installed using the 45NRTH stud insertion tool. Using the proprietary tool ensures the studs are seated correctly without damaging the tire casing.
The XL version features a larger carbide tip diameter. This increased surface area provides more aggressive grip, making them ideal for riders tackling particularly challenging or icy winter terrain.
These studs are specifically engineered for 45NRTH studded tires that feature pre-molded stud pockets. They may not fit or stay secure in tires from other manufacturers.
The carbide tip provides the necessary hardness to grip ice without wearing down quickly, while the aluminum base keeps the overall weight of the tire low. This combination offers the best balance of durability and performance for winter riding.
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Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.
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$18