For me, I’ll be using my 90s steel MTB.
I’ve already coated the inside of the frame with anti rust, got a rust resistant chain, and have studded tires at the ready. The studded tires will only go on if there’s persistent icy conditions.
Packed marine grease into my hubs, bb ends, and headset bearings.
On my todo list, I’ll be installing pogies/bar mitts, which have proven to be way better than any glove solution I tried last winter.
I also want to buy/make a mudflap to expend the front fender. This should prevent a considerable amount of grit, salt, melted snow from reaching my shoes, chain, crankset, etc.
As soon as salt goes down, my bike will get more cleaning around critical parts, and a frame wipe down after every ride.
I do have a winter cycling jacket and fleecy cycling pants, but feeling the cold on my body was never an issue last winter. A fleecy buff and helmet liner that gets over my ears are a must, and i may invest in a few extra pairs.
First tip: Live in Chicago. Mild winters, aggressive plowing, very flat.
Second tip: Take care of your brakes, ride slower, know how to stop in icy conditions.
Gear: Avoid cotton. Lots of layers. You’ll get hot and need to vent your core. Getting sweaty is dangerous. Gloves, get a pair 9f warm but skintight smartphone-compatible gloves and a big pair of waterproof-shell mitts to wear overtop. Your boots should also be waterproof. Some kind of rear fender or guard on the bike to prevent splatter up the back.
And bright, bright colors. Visibility is worse in winter, you can’t afford to be invisible.
I’m all about high-viz, so I’ve got that covered!
I didn’t need boots last winter, but did need shoe covers a few times, just to cut the windchill. I do have boots at the ready if needed!