Being in the snowbelt and having a 22 mile commute aren't the issue. The lack of safe protected bikeways and maintenance of them is.

I've a buddy who rides 19 miles each way (Assen > Groningen) does so regardless of weather and one day a week has to be there at 6a. It's not a problem because he has protected bikeways the entire distance and they are kept clear of snow all winter.

I believe these are part of his commute: