oh and i took a look at V brakes, there is some disagreement on whether these are compatible with road bikes. sigh.

any advice as to where to get studded tires for a road bike? i need 700x25 for the brakes i have now (for the tire to fit). or is this not a good idea and do i just have to get a fatter-tire bike for the commute next year thru snow and ice?

my issue with commuting wear is that it's super/uber expensive: i've found levi's commuter makes women clothes and beta brand. but there's not much. i got chrome shoes and they're pretty wonderful, i used them today for the first time. stiff and responsive, i commuted in 5:30/mile which is unusual b/c i typically get stopped at every light making my commute 6-7 min/mile. i'm wondering if it's the shoes helping me. my complaint is that it's really a men's shoe (why don't they just make it unisex? what about a women's shoe?). and my commuting shorts (cargo) are in a men's style. both i'm not crazy about the looks. but whatever, it's technical without looking technical which i suppose is a step up.

putting a woman's touch on athletic gear i think has always been a challenge (example: women's running gear). i know men don't care as much, but for a woman, being mistaken for a man b/c of your clothing - well it sucks. it's like when people comment on your bald babies who all happen to be boys. well no, baby just hasn't grown in their hair yet.