I'd feel the same way were it not for studded tires. I recommend studded Nokians.
The only problem with them is that they are so sure-footed on ice that you're tempted to always go fast. I've learned "the hard way" to slow down a little in the turns.

The other big crash hazards are loamy refreeze (which is like suddenly hitting a sand dune) and piled-up snow, which (as often as not) is not going to yield to your front wheel - even when the rest of the snow is powder.
- Having front suspension helps with this - but there have been times when I have pushed it too hard and was sent flying over the bars with the bike cartwheeling over me.
Also - be aware that deeply rutted roads can catch the front wheel and cause the bike to stop. Abruptly.

It's important to have steel handlebars with bar extensions. Without them, your handlebar will twist like a pretzel and your levers/bar-mounted shifters will be smashed.

Blinking lights and Planet Bike fenders are a must also - I find them to be incredibly durable.

PS - You'll work up a thirst - fill your bottle with steaming hot water to start so it won't be a block of ice so fast.