If you're not using studded tires in the Winter, safety and bike control are just not that important to you. For me, I've *never* had a Winter surprise where my foot didn't automatically unclip at just the right time and my suddenly released foot was the counterbalance I need to regain control in most cases. In my experience, the slipperiest surface is a very thin layer of slush with water on top; nothing for your studs to bite into and not enough depth for your tread blocks to do you any good. Deeper slush not a problem, glare ice is a joy and I never miss a patch if I can. In slippery conditions a foot down will often *make* you fall with studded tires. Reason: Your tires have more traction than your foot. On ice a foot down is an absolute recipe for a fall.