Winter Bike recommendation request
 

I live in Worcester, MA and work in Westford. I ride my Specialized Roubaix about an hour everyday during my lunch break and I want to continue riding into the winter. The temperature hasn't been a problem so far (today it was 20 Deg) and I think I've got the clothing gear sorted out. So far, we haven't had any snow and the Roubaix has been great.

What I need are some recommendations for when we start getting snow, sand, ice, etc. I think my Roubaix, with its skinny road tires, will no longer be appropriate. I'm not planning on riding in blizzard conditions, but do hope to ride inbetween the storms where I might run into patches of packed snow, ice and sand. I'm thinking about picking up a used hybrid with twist shifters (good for bulky gloves) and knobby tires for approx $200. Does that make sense? Any particular models I should look at (I do want to keep it relatively light). Any other suggestions on the configuration?

Thanks!

I've always been a fan of the late 80's early 90's non suspension mountain bikes. Beefy frames, ability to fit wide tires, and usually a comfortable and stable geometry. Add to that some had eyelets for racks and fenders and you have a great all around machine that can be had for not much money.

You will have a trade off though if you want to keep it light and and still make it weather suitable.

I would either do as you have considered or find an old 80-90's vintage mountain bike to use. If you have the cash to buy a Roubaix you certainly could probably afford to get an entry level hybrid or used mountain bike fixed up for bad weather. You will want some kind of hybrid tire for marginal days just for your own safety. Even if you don't plan on riding on really bad days. The Roubaix probably won't fit bigger than 28mm road racing tires and you may need bigger, wider or studded tires and fenders for some days.

My suggestion, whichever route you take with the bike, is to get studded tires to deal with the ice. They could save you a lot of pain and grief.

I would recommend a modern hardtail MTB or one with a rigid suspension corrected fork.