I've been using studs for a few years, and they make a big difference in terms of my ability to go out in any weather. I got them after I hit black ice in the dark and broke a rib.

Here in Madison, you've got two "camps." One the one side are riders like me, who want the bike to be more or less unconditionally safe, and don't mind giving up some speed.

On the other side are riders who count on their skill to keep the shiny side up (that, and driving to work if it gets too nasty). And over the past couple years we've had very little ice on the streets, so I saw a lot of regular bikes throughout the winter.

I plan on being less prissy about road salt and my bikes. I'll keep them clean, but they're not heirlooms -- they're meant to be used.