If you want a spring, may I suggest a Schwinn cruiser bike. I hear those springer forks give a cushy ride.

Frame flex absorbs power. I like a stiff frame. That said, both steel and aluminum can be stiff. The metals have different properties, but a well designed frame can take advantage of the materials inherent properties.

So unless you ARE a premeire frame builder why dont you can the debate over which material is better. There are good frames made from Aluminum, steel, titanium, and apparently even Bamboo.

I like the Canondale Road and MTB frames I've tried. SO let's just admit that there is more than one right way to build a bicycle. Embrace diversity, and accept that not everyone has the same tastes. What feels "dead" to one may very well feel "fast" to another.

Diversity means more choices for all of us, and a better chance of finding the perfect frame.