Langster: Steel or Aluminum?
 

So, I had to sell my road bike to fund my wedding in June, but this summer I'll be graduating from College and want to treat myself (as long as I have a job, that is). I loved my Allez, it fit me like a glove and really want another bike that fits that well. However, I want something that's super simple and stripped down for riding around the park and paved paths.

So, being that I'm a Specialized fan, I'm looking at their Langsters, steel and aluminum in size 58cm. I want something comfortable, rugged, durable, and simple. Now the geo on the aluminum seems more in line with the Allez (head tube, top tube, etc). So, I feel like I would feel a bit more at home almost instantly on that one.

However, I really like the ride of steel, but, the steel langster has a more "classic track geo." Smaller head tube seems to be the major difference.

Both are the same price, so what should I be thinking here? Would you guys care to lend me some advice?

Pro Ltd.

If you're not riding really far, the track geo may be more "fun" to you, I know it is to me and a lot of others here.

Steel with threaded headset, quill stem, drops, and box section rims. :D

I'd be riding 10 miles max around a bike route locally. Laps around the park, etc. When I move to Chicago next year I'll be riding the MUPs out there, too, so I need to keep that in mind as well.

I'm physically able to handle the "aggressive" geo of a road frame with a flipped down stem, etc. But, I don't want anything too extreme.

If you really liked the Allez and want to have a similar feel, go with the Al.

You should go with the cro-mo. I used to think aluminum was amazing to ride...then i got a steel single speed...then sold all my aluminum geared bikes to buy more steel single speeds! I currently own no bikes with gears or aluminum! Best choice I've ever made.

If you have the chance I would test ride them both and see what you like. You may prefer an aluminum frame with carbon fork over a steel bike, or vise versa. It really comes down to personal preference. I would say a saddle and nice tires will make the biggest difference, so pick whichever bike you will enjoy riding more.

I am selling my 2007 Langster frame and fork in 58cm possibly....