Types, Benefits, and How to Choose the Right Model

Traffic spikes are one of the most effective physical deterrents for enforcing one-way vehicle flow, preventing wrong-way entry, and controlling vehicle speed at secured access points. Unlike electronic access control systems that can be bypassed or fail during a power outage, traffic spikes provide a passive, always-present physical barrier that works without electricity, programming, or credentials. This guide covers how traffic spikes work, the different types available, their key benefits, and a full breakdown of the DoorKing 1610 Series lineup we carry at Elitegates.net.

How Traffic Spikes Work

Traffic spikes are rows of hardened steel teeth mounted in a housing that sits at or below road level. The spikes are angled so that a vehicle traveling in the correct direction drives over them safely, with the spikes folding flat or retracting under the tire's weight. A vehicle attempting to travel in the wrong direction encounters the spikes at the wrong angle, causing immediate tire puncture. This one-way enforcement mechanism requires no power, no remote trigger, and no operator intervention to function.

Most spike systems used in access control applications are spring-loaded or weighted, meaning the spikes return to the upright position automatically after a vehicle passes. Some models also include a lock-down feature that allows the spikes to be pinned in the flat position, enabling temporary two-way traffic when needed such as during deliveries, emergency access, or event management.

Types of Traffic Spikes

Surface-Mount Traffic Spikes

Surface-mount spikes are installed directly on top of the pavement, anchored to concrete with hardware. They do not require any trenching or in-ground installation, making them the fastest and most cost-effective option for sites where cutting the pavement is not practical. The trade-off is a more visible profile above the road surface, which doubles as a speed bump to slow approaching vehicles.

Surface-mount systems are typically sold in modular 3-foot sections that can be combined to cover wider lanes. The DoorKing 1610-088 is the base kit for surface-mount installations, consisting of a 3-foot spike section with two end caps. The 1610-087 extension adds another 3 feet, creating a 6-foot system for wider lane coverage.

Flush-Mount (In-Ground) Traffic Spikes

Flush-mount spikes are installed in-ground, recessed into a concrete housing so the top plate sits level with the road surface. When the spikes are in the retracted position, the unit is nearly invisible and presents no obstacle to vehicles traveling in the authorized direction. This makes flush-mount systems the preferred choice for high-traffic commercial and industrial environments where aesthetics, tire safety, and seamless vehicle flow are priorities.

Flush-mount systems require trenching and concrete work during installation but deliver a cleaner, more permanent result. The DoorKing 1610 Series offers six flush-mount models covering two weight capacity tiers and three retraction/lock-down configurations.

Automated Spikes: Integrated Barrier Arm and Spike Systems

The DoorKing 1603-090 and 1603-091 are barrier gate operators with a surface-mounted spike system integrated directly into the operator. The arm and spikes function as one coordinated unit: when the barrier arm raises, the spikes lower to allow safe vehicle passage, and when the arm closes, the spikes return to the upright position automatically. 

The 1603-090 is the standard model. The 1603-091 adds a Convenience Open feature that automatically raises the arm during a power outage, making it the preferred choice for airports, hospitals, and emergency access points. Both support barrier arms up to 14 feet and are best suited for prisons, military facilities, border crossings, and high-security sites where a barrier arm alone is not sufficient.

Key Features to Understand

Spring-Loaded vs. Weighted

Spring-loaded spikes use stainless steel springs under each spike to hold them upright and return them to the deployed position after being compressed by an authorized vehicle. They respond quickly and are well suited for high-cycle environments. Weighted spikes use counter-weights instead of springs, resulting in smoother, quieter operation with less mechanical snap. Weighted systems are often preferred in noise-sensitive environments or where a slower, more controlled retraction is desired.

Lock-Down Feature

Models with lock-down allow the spikes to be manually pinned in the flat position, disabling the one-way enforcement temporarily. This is useful for facilities that occasionally need to allow two-way traffic through a normally one-way lane without removing the spike system entirely. Lock-down models carry a slight price premium over standard models but add meaningful operational flexibility.

Weight Capacity

Standard DoorKing flush-mount models support up to 8,000 lbs per axle, covering passenger vehicles, vans, and light commercial trucks. Heavy-duty models in the 1610-090 through 1610-093 range support up to 20,000 lbs per axle, making them appropriate for loading docks, distribution centers, bus terminals, and any site regularly handling heavy commercial vehicles.

Required Accessories

The DoorKing 1615-080 illuminated Traffic Warning Sign is required by most jurisdictions when traffic spikes are installed. It alerts drivers to the presence of spikes ahead, ensuring legal compliance and reducing liability. The DoorKing 1610-150 Speed Bump is strongly recommended as a companion installation, placed upstream of the spike system to slow vehicles to a safe speed before they reach the spikes. Approaching at excessive speed can damage tires and the spike housing itself.

DoorKing 1610 Series: Full Model Comparison

All flush-mount models are 6-foot sections constructed from galvanized steel with a red-painted top plate for visibility. Surface-mount models are constructed from 1/4-inch diamond plate steel, painted safety yellow.

 

Common Applications

• Parking lots and garages: enforcing one-way exit lanes
• Gated communities: exit-only lane control alongside a barrier arm
• Car rental lots: preventing customers from driving into the return lane the wrong way
• Government and military facilities: high-security vehicle flow control
• Loading docks and distribution centers: controlling truck access lanes
• Hotels and commercial driveways: speed control and directional enforcement

The Bottom Line

Traffic spikes are one of the few access control solutions that work entirely on their own terms. No power required, no credentials to manage, no software to update. A properly specified and installed spike system enforces directional compliance and deters unauthorized entry around the clock, regardless of what else is happening on the property. DoorKing has been manufacturing traffic control and access control hardware since 1948 and the 1610 Series reflects that depth of experience, offering a model for every site condition, vehicle type, and security requirement. Whether you need a simple surface-mount kit for a single exit lane or a fully integrated heavy-duty barrier arm and spike system for a high-security facility, the DoorKing lineup has a purpose-built solution.