i have a a jamis sputnik but am a wuss, i don't ride in the rain or snow.it is a great ride for the $ it comes with a flip flop hub so you can rid either fixed or free wheel (with brakes i hope) or front with front.you can always change your gearing for your own personal confort. it is steel with a carbon fork so if your going to spend a lot of time in wet weather baybe alum is for you...maybe the langster although the ride isn't as smooth
good luck