I've so enjoyed commuting on my little Trek 830 during the spring/summer!!!

Since my move, my commute was trimmed down from 6 flat miles round trip to only 2 (very hilly) miles. Needless to say, I'm kind of a wimp in the cold weather. I can bare the cold but hate wetness.

I love riding my bike but I'm slightly terrified of the winter. Michigan winters can be slushy, cold, slippery, and salty.

I would appreciate any advice/suggestions about gear/chain lube/modifications/maintenance tips you would share to help motivate and prepare me for the snow!

My one thought was to just commute in grubby clothes that can/will be wet and change when I get to work (including shoes). I'm thinking I may need waterproof panniers for the winter for my clothes and to protect against the salt/dirt.

If possible, I would like to keep my winter prep purchases around or under $100-$150 (excluding the new jacket I'm planning to get anyway).

Thanks in advance!