Thanks for all the replies guys, I realize it was a little long. Currently I've been to Geoff's bike and ski, world of bikes, 30th century bikes and Scheels. I haven't been to broken spoke yet because they were closed during ragbrai and currently there is a ton of construction right in front of their shop, I have heard good things about them and plan on going in today or tomorrow. I'm not yet certain I'd like to do any winter riding where studs are required, mostly because it get's very icy here and with my track record I think I'm begging for trouble. Some of the bikes listed are starting to get out of my price point. I cannot spend more than $500, and ideally less than that so I can get some fenders and perhaps a basket I really like the raleigh but I know I shouldn't do an impulse buy! Will check out Broken spoke today and see if they have anything to offer me. I really appreciate the help (and i will buy that cable lock!)!