First of all, a search didn't exactly turn up what I'm looking for, so I'm sorry if this has been asked.
I want to know if a fixed gear bike is appropriate for occasional winter commuting? I live in Denver, but I won't be commuting every day. I usually wait until it's mostly nice weather (cold but no moisture coming down), but there could still be patches of snow or ice on the trails and streets. I have heard fixed gear bikes are great for "feeling the road." But I worry that only one gear would be dangerous on hills and slopes, especially if I have to get out of the saddle. I would definitely have cantilever brakes as well, and whatever fat tires would be required. My commute is 10 miles one way and about 700 feet total elevation gain/loss.
Please separate this issue from the bike, but I'm considering a
Motobecane Fantom Cross UNO. I'd probably use it year round, and put thinner, slicker tires on in warmer months. Thanks for your input.