I hadn't ridden a bike in over 40 years until last spring. I ended up buying a S-works Roubaix and then an S-works Tarmac this spring. Just a couple weeks ago I bought a Tommasini. I gotta say I was pleasantly surprised at the ride quality of the steel bike. It weighs a little more but the ride is not lacking one bit. I'm not sure why one would feel the need for a new bike either. With so many classics for sale on ebay and craigslist. I would think you could get more bike for your budget going that route.