I know people will throw on the Sheldon links, and other links and say the tire pressure, the fit, etc. will matter more on comfort. May be totally true, but here's my perspective.

Rode a leisurely 20 mile ride on my Ritchey Road Logic today. I'm in Kansas, the roads suck; mostly chip and seal. Haven't ridden the bike in two weeks, so put 100 lbs air in front, and about 108 to 110 lbs in back (I weigh around 163 for those who need all the details). Anyway, about 0.5 miles into the ride, I thought I flatted. The bike is just so damn smooth and comfy! I thought my Miyata was a great ride, but it seriously doesn't compare to the Ritchey. Anyway, had a great 20 mile ride.

Got home, just had to try out my Cervelo back to back again. Pumped up to same air pressure. I admit, the tires and wheels are different, so not 100% apples to apples. But the efficiency and the feeling of speed on the Cervelo, the Ritchey just can't match.

I seriously love both bikes. But my conclusion is this - if I'm riding long rides, I'll probably take the Cervelo. Need every bit of efficiency available. If doing something 40 miles or less, I'll probably take the Ritchey more.

I totally understand those that say "steel is real" - at least for my bikes, it truly offers a very comfortable ride. On the other hand, if I could only have 1 road bike, I think I'd still pick my carbon Cervelo.