Originally Posted by ApolloCVermouth
Thanks for the info. I do have some semi-slick speedmax tires that might do the trick. I usually ride cheap 26” knobys with sheet metal screws in the side threads. I don't know the winter conditions in Halifax i.e. whether studs are necessary. I'm guessing that slicks might not be the best idea though.
if you've got a cross bike, then you should be able to fit the nokian (expensive), or innova/nashbar knockoff studded tires on. Get the ones with carbide studs.
Two wheelsets might be the way to go- one with slicks for fast dry/wet weather commuting, and one with studs for ice & snow, or even just a spare front wheel with studs for those extra-bad days.
I like to gear significantly lower in the winter- i've found that you can power out of unexpectedly deep snow and tire ruts where otherwise you get bogged down and crash. Also, being able to powerslide around corners on a bike is fun.