Mountain Biking - Two questions on size and steel

I'm close to narrowing down my second mountain bike - my first was a crappy one that I won't even bother to mention, but it got me from point A to point B. I've moved a lot closer to a gigantic park nearby my new place, and plan to do riding in the trails there, and had two questions before I purchased my next bike.

Well before I ask, I think I've narrowed down my choice to a Rocky Mountain Blizzard.
1. I am 5"10 140lbs (a light weight according to most), and am unsure of what size frame to get. I was recommended to get an 18.5" frame, which felt comfortable, or a 17.5" frame which also felt comfortable.

2. I've also heard great things about steel bikes, but I just wanted to find out more feedback on steel frames, most particular the RM Blizzard. Any feedback on the bike would be helpful.

Thanks in advance!

I'm close to narrowing down my second mountain bike - my first was a crappy one that I won't even bother to mention, but it got me from point A to point B. I've moved a lot closer to a gigantic park nearby my new place, and plan to do riding in the trails there, and had two questions before I purchased my next bike.

Well before I ask, I think I've narrowed down my choice to a Rocky Mountain Blizzard.
1. I am 5"10 140lbs (a light weight according to most), and am unsure of what size frame to get. I was recommended to get an 18.5" frame, which felt comfortable, or a 17.5" frame which also felt comfortable.

2. I've also heard great things about steel bikes, but I just wanted to find out more feedback on steel frames, most particular the RM Blizzard. Any feedback on the bike would be helpful.

Thanks in advance!
1) i am thinking lean towards smaller frame...seems to be what people do these days.

2) i just recently bought 3 steel frames. not all to be built up right away, but one in particular i wanted to get before i couldn't find it. i probably cannot offer any new info than what you already know. especially if you do a search in a couple of the different forums on steel...i.e, frame builders, road, mtb

thanks for your imput.
Why is it that riding a smaller frame (geometrically) has become more popular anyhow?

thanks for your imput.
Why is it that riding a smaller frame (geometrically) has become more popular anyhow?
i am not really sure. i could be wrong. i was out of it of it for many years. let some others comment tomorrow who know more.

i think some might have to do with maneuverability. some might have to do with getting more stand over clearance...but that seems to be taken care of with the frame design these days.

just seems like it was "cooler" to have bigger bikes in the early to mid 90's when i got my schwinn. like i said, i could be way off base and don't want to lead you in the wrong direction. we'll see what others have to say....http://www.observedtrials.net/vb/images/smilie/bigthumb.gif

Steel frames tend to have a little more flex - my son races an aluminum frame, but will not part with his old steel HardRock.

Bigger bikes can't be made to feel smaller, but smaller frames have more clearance over the boys and can still have the feel made bigger (longer stem+higher seat post).

Thanks for the imput thus far - any other feedback on the benefits or a steel frame > aluminum would be greatly appreciated!

I've got a steel bike and i absolutely love it. It rides way smoother than aluminum and i think it can take more of a beating