Recently upgraded to (what to me) is a pretty nice/expensive wheelset: Mavic Open Pros laced to formula hubs with DT Swiss Competition spokes. Standard brass nipples. Since I ride year round, I initially planned to ride em in the winter. Guy at the shop I frequent suggested I consider investing in a cheapie wheel set instead (I have my old stock wheel thats already survived a winter, so just the $50 double-wall whatever it was front rim they had at the bike shop). He also said riding nicer wheels was definitely doable in the winter, just stressed maintenance. Specifically he said regular wipe downs are important, and suggested lubing the nipples with triflow to prevent spoke seizure.

As I'm a broke student, the latter option is my plan. Does that sound ok? If I'm really going to irreparably harm my wheels then I guess $50 isn't that much for a beater front wheel. Part of what sucks there is the whole point of investing in nicer wheels was to enjoy the ride quality/durability they ostensibly afford, and yeah, spending more money. So if I provide a bit of TLC (and feel free to amend the "suggested" list) should I be ok riding my Mavic's through the winter in MN?