Hi all,
Just passing on the info.
I sent an inquiry to Conti. regarding their new Top Contact Winter II. Below is my question and answer. Looks like I am still buying studded. I thought this tire was supposed to be based on a studdless ice tire like that on a car. Which are nearly equal to studded if not, in some reviews better.

My Question:
Top Contact Winter II
How does this tire compare to a studded tire on clear, cold roads that will
have ice (melt, freeze puddles) and or black ice?


Answer:
Hello Shawn,

Certainly this is a bit of apples and oranges. The Top Contact Winter II
relies upon automotive design and a combination of rubber compound and
siping in the tread pattern. Significantly better than a standard all-season
tire, with the added benefit of being able to ride on dry road as well
without destroying expensive studs. On the other hand, in the most extreme
conditions, nothing replaces the function of a carbide stud.

Personally, I feel having the ability to ride on a wider variety of
condition without thinking of the tire, makes the Top Contact Winter II a
better all-around choice.

Enjoy the Ride