I took the bike out on a quick ride around the neighborhood last night in perfect winter weather to test those 700x48 tires. It was snowing and there was a new layer of thin snow on top of ice. It handled WAY nicer than I expected the bike to. I MIGHT be able to hold off on studs for a little while. I'm so excited to start bike commuting on this thing. It felt like the tires were kinda floating on top of the new snow. I really do like that this has a great in between range of tires it can fit - without being a full-blown fatbike.

Also, you're right - the rack is super far back. I noticed I could adjust and move the rack closer along the adjustment rails, but then you'd start to get a tilting angle effect. I like it where it is. PLENTY of room for your feet. No heel striking for me.

I also raised my seat a little bit once I got some pedals on there and made some more fine adjustments.