Last fall, I got some lights and waterproof jacket with reflectors, fenders and most importantly, some good breathable rain tights - this last made all the difference in the world. I rode to work all through the Vancouver winter, except for the two weeks when there was slush on the roads. The pants in particular are of a breathable, water resistant comfortable fabric, far better than the plasticy rain pants I had before. Without the gear, I wouldn't do it.

What's the helmet tape trick you mention?