OK, I'll preface this by saying I think all people who ride outside in the wintertime are crazy No, really- I think they're crazy! It's not my thing at all--I'd rather do spin class 10 times in one day than go out in the snow and ice, but to each their own...with that said, I should also say that I am a novice when it comes to most things bike...However, I will also say that my friend who is not a novice will ride anytime it is above 10 degrees, and he'd never do it without his cyclocross bike or mountain bike. I know cyclocross tires range from about 28-32s, and I'm guessing the bigger the better traction in deep snow, but 28s might be fine if you were just dealing with wet weather. I've also heard people in different discussions give a big thumbs up to mountain bikes in the snow. As a matter of fact when it's cold out, it's no benefit to be speeding along and making it even colder. I don't know the other differences between road and cyclocross bikes (something doing with brakes and clearance?) and if they'd be of benefit in snowy riding. Anyway, maybe someone out there knows... It gets very snowy and slushy here in Minnesota in the wintertime (so I'm not coming from the perspective of just a little ice or a few snowflakes) especially on the shoulders of the roads (where you'd probably be riding), and i would think quite dangerous if you weren't prepared. I guess I'd be the one to go with a beater bike as well, as the crap they put on the streets here couldn't possibly be good for your bike (and who want's to wash their bike everytime you ride when it's 10 degrees out?!) and you might be able to get larger width tires which might lend themselves to safety-- and I guess that's what I'd look at first-- safety! And i guess that what's safe for you all depends on the climate and amount of snow where you are... good luck you crazy outdoor winter rider