Thanks. I got the info from Michelin website. Specs look exactly the same as the Alpin tires, except that the speed rating is T(119) for the Xi2 vs V(149) for the Alpin, so the Alpin would have better handling. I doubt I'll be going over 70mph in the winter around here. I am thinking that the Xi2 has better snow and ice traction, and it has a 40k mile warranty.
Hope I made the right decision
Any other feedback (good or bad), on these tires is appreciated.