Originally Posted by
csimons
Aluminum is lighter but a little stiffer, so the steel frame might offer a (slightly) more comfortable ride. More importantly, if this will be your first bike, be sure to measure your inseam properly to determine the correct size to order (or have a bike shop help you measure).
Oh boy. No point in fighting this war again. Let's just get all the facts out there.
Steel has a nice ride.
Aluminum rides harshly.
Steel is heavy.
Aluminum breaks.
Steel survives crashes better.
Steel rusts.
Aluminum is stiff.
Steel is noodly.
Steel is real.
Aluminum is ugly.
Steel goes soft over time.
Aluminum is unsafe to ride/race after 2-5 years.
Steel lasts forever.
Hope this helps!
(Seriously, get the one with nicer specs, or if the specs are the same, the lighter one, or the one you think looks nicer)