The quote from Steelcase is in line. Note: on a tire & rim package the total amount is the critical factor since they will adjust one down and take more for the other for marketing purposes: e.g. $124 is a great price for the Hakka 1's but the deal on the rims is not as good. However, the total price is within $3 of what I paid last year even though my rims were cheaper.
As for the handling without studs, you are correct it's not an issue at all.
