How much of a difference in handleing is there compared to running the hardsurfaced wear rod compared to ones with carbide. Been looking at Bergstromskegs website just looking for anyones experience with the hardsurfaced as compared to the type 1 model.

Thanks
:div20:

carbides last about......100 times longer...runa road a couple of time and say bye bye to the non carbides runners,,,,,,

regular wear rods dont even compare one bit to carbides it would be the worst decision you have ever made buying just wear rods with out carbides. go with like a 6 inch you will be plenty happy

You get a couple of benefits with the carbides. Increased wear is obviously a main one: they outlast mild steel wearbars (OEM non carbide bars) by 2000% or so. Carbides outlast wearbars of the bergstrom type, which have a bead of hardweld drawn along the bottom of the wearbar by 500%, or so.

The other major hoot is the significantly improved turning ability. The carbides, when new, really carve on Ice or hardpack snow. The difference in softer trail surfaces, or powder, is minimal. Even with appreciable wear on the carbide insert "pointy edge", they still turn better than non-carbides. Lately, lots of OEM performance or high end sleds come with carbides. Just a little on the skimpy side: like 3" of cutting edge.

Buy a set with 6" edges, 60 to 90 degree, and enjoy the difference in handling and control. The more studs you run, the heavier the carbides on the skiis.

6 Inch carbides over any wearbar. I would not be cought dead on a trail with those things. Remindes me of my John Deer Days. If you get wearbars forget about turning on the ice.

I am unstudded so should i go with 4" or 6" carbides since i really do not have any plans to stud my sled, guess i enjoy steering with the throttle to much :div20:

GO WITH CARBIDES. IF YOU ARE A NON AGGRESIVE RIDER. 4 INCH WILL BE FINE. IF ITS NOT ENOUGH PUT MORE WEIGHT ON SKIS WITH FRONT SUSPENSION. THE FACTORY ONES THAT COME ON THE SLED ARE NOT VERY GOOD. THEY DONT LAST LONG.

Cool thanks for all the replies :div20:

I think they would be fine for a moutain rider but really poor for a trail rider! if its just cost your looking at buy a no name brand! if you want the best get sharperbars or woodys!