Originally Posted by
tatfiend
Your buddy is mistaken about wet riding. Tread serves no function as far as traction in wet conditions for a bicycle. Bikes do not run fast enough to worry about hydroplaning.
The main worry on pavement is rain after a substantial dry spell as roads can be very slippery for all vehicles, including cars, until the mixture of water, oil and old rubber is washed off of the road.
There is the problem with wet leaves and the dreaded grass clippings some people toss in the street. Still if it rains I tend to stay inside. But if I simply have to ride in the rain I drag out the MTB.