for me cold weather riding was always more about covering skin, layers and the ability to adjust the layers and ventilation as needed. extended riding at 17 degree F would be really challenging on my knees and ITB. tights and rain pants or just snow pants are well and good but the thighs take a hit and so do the knees. never mind the freezing water bottles! :-) so for me I go with a cycling specific rain jacket with reflective stripes cuz it's dark when it's cold. the rain jacket accommodates the precipitation which inevitably comes with the cold too. and a jacket that allows for a couple layers underneath. good luck in your quest!