[Richard230]

I know that a lot of people complain about governments using salt as a way to de-ice roadways because of what the salt does to anything metal on their vehicles. In California we have been getting a lot more snowfall than usual and so snowy and ice covered roads have been getting a lot of press lately. 

One of the topics discussed was why Caltrans, the state roadway maintenance division, uses sand instead of salt to increase traction on ice and snow-covered pavement. What was mentioned is that sand is used because it is causes much less damage to the surrounding environment than does salt. I guess that makes sense and I do appreciate that I don't have to continually wash and otherwise protect my motorcycles from corrosion during the winter due to the action of salt water. So I am happy about that. On the other hand, you do have to be careful when riding on sand covered roads due to the lack of traction caused by the loose sand, at least until the snowfall turns to rain and washes the sand away. I guess every approach has its pros and cons.

What do you think? Is salt a better solution to increasing traction on roads, or is sand good enough as a way to protect the environment? Personally, I have no experience riding on roadways where salt is used as a de-icer so I can only see one side of the discussion.

[AzCal Retred]

Studded snow tires on a second set of steel rims is the answer. Your vehicle can still run highway speeds yet you aren't at the mercy of icy roads. It's stupid to modify hundreds of thousands of miles of roads for a few weeks a year. Salting roads is a great idea if the object is to sell more cars. Sand is great until the next layer of ice glasses over it.

Gear up for conditions at hand or stay home. Carry cables/chains and know how (and be able) to use them or stay home. Snow plows will keep your vehicle from getting high centered, driving for conditions at hand and having suitable equipment do the rest. We have internet, telephone & snail-mail, Door-Dash & Walmart does home delivery; lots of options when the weather turns inclement.

[GlennF]

[Richard230]