yes, the characteristics of carbon are better attributed to the layup process of a given company. that's why alot of people will ride a trek and say, "wow, that's not at all what i was expecting. it kinda sucks." etc., etc., whereas for a company like kestrel, light and stiff are not enough. i suppose for racing purposes, one would worry more about all-out speed and not think so much about the feel.

i'm not trying to take anything away from steel. i'm just going by the experience i've had with alot of other bikes. i think steel is awesome. if i didn't have the bike i have, i'd definitely buy steel.