I was car free for 4 years commuting North West of Denver. Oh yes, tough tires in the spring summer and fall. In the winter I wish I had known about studded tires. They would have saved me many nasty crashes and a lot of time when I could have gone faster during icy conditions. Be very protective of your face, hands, and feet during low temps. Quality shoe covers and gaiters for wet,slushy, and cold times.