Best Spike Remover

[PV4Free]

Has anyone found a tool that easily and efficiently removes spikes without stripping the tool or the spike itself? I hear that Asics makes the best wrenches but some people swear by pliers, and i have tried a crescent wrench with some success. Also, is there any rule as to how often to change your spikes so the threads do not get damaged? Thanks

[1yeldud1]

Most factory tools are not very well built - they tend to round off the points and get the operator in a bad mood - the best thing I have found is a set of "micro" channel lock pliers. Go to the local auto parts store or the local hardware/farm store and try to locate these -- $10.00 to $17.00. These are a set of adjustable pliers that are about 5 inches long. These have worked for me 95% of the time to remove worn spikes. If I get a spike that is extremely stubborn I will take a file and file flats on its head to make a better "gripping" surface for the pliers. These plyers are adjustable letting the user apply a very considereable amount of pressure to the spikew points. Normally I check the points about once a week during the heaviest part of the season and change as needed. Any other suggestions

[Maverick986]

i have an asics wrench and it works great....most of the time....i really only have problems when i get a spike that doesn't want to come out and since i think asics makes their tools w/ hardened or at least tempered steel it doesn't round out...it rounds the spike off....i know this b/c i tried opening up the hole in the tool to accommodate some larger spikes i bought for xc once and i couldn't get it to file open.....other than that if i get stubborn spikes i take a file to make better flats on them and use small vise grips to lock onto them and they come out in a jiffy...and sometimes the spike doesn't even need the filing...

as for when i change them...i just change them when they start getting worn down to the point where i feel i'm losing something in my run..but that’s me

[RasmusWJ]

Use the mizuno system!

[PV4Free]

What is the mizuno system?

[ashcraftpv]

I find that pliers or a small pair of channel locks work the best for those stubborn ones.