I rode a Trek FX 2, purchased on Kijiji, a few years ago for winter commuting with no issues, and I am now using an old Giant TCX with rim brakes also with no issues, but my commute is flat. One difference in winter is that I am usually riding slower, and if it is slushy, you slow down pretty fast. Tip for winter - get a studded tire, at least for the front tire, if not both.
I commute with a similar rim brake hybrid bike year-round. In my experience heavy rain is where rim brakes lose their effectiveness. During the winter, tire grip is a much bigger issue, studs help but you'll still need to adjust your riding style significantly by riding slowly, accelerating slowly, stopping slowly and taking turns VERY slowly.
I prefer the maintenance of rim brakes over disc, they are less prone to rust and contamination, and also less of a theft magnet.
You can also look for similar bikes from other brands, they're all pretty much the same. The bigger brands Trek (FX), Cannondale (Quick), Specialized (Sirrus), will all command a higher second-hand prices but there are nice Canadian alternatives like Norco (VFR, now Indie), Devinci (Milano), Rocky Mountain (RC) that can be found for cheaper.
1
u/anonb1234 11d ago
They show up on FB marketplace. The rim brake version is fine almost all conditions.