Ouch and ARG, wet slush! Thanks for the heads up about hidden obstacles. I commute 13 miles one way as well and I appreciate speed. However I've slowed down in some areas in the interest of safety. Rule #1 do no harm. I imagine my first snowy ride will be much slower but speed is still a temptress. I'm on break now 'till 1/4/10 so I have some time to plan my excursions and I'll probably try my work commute during off peak times. I usually do test commutes on Sunday mornings because traffic is so light.