Hey, I appreciate the input and assume you commute a ton... I'm supposing you're in favor of studded tires and never wanted to imply that I didn't appreciate or resect your opinion; it's justthat the guy I know (old messenger, LBS owner, hippie/stoner type isn't into them. I am at a disadvatage though, unless I switch to 700c on my SS I'll have to make my own (the bike has old school 27 inchers). From what I understand from another respected member of the forum, it's do-able to say the least. Again, thanks for the input.