Originally Posted by
bransom
I think everyone is getting too wound up over frame materials. To the OP, just go ride a bunch of bikes in your size that are designed for what you hope to do (long rides, race, gravel, whatever). Pick the one that feels best to YOU. There is no ultimate "best" material or bike, just what works for you or doesn't.
Fantastic advice - I totally agree with the above. While frame material can matter, it matters a whole lot less than some are making out in this thread and probably should be a secondary consideration. Ride some bikes that fit your budget and are designed for the kind of riding you want to do and go with whatever speaks to you. If it turns out to be a retro-grouch approved steel bike that's fine, but it might also be a modern hydro-formed aluminum bike or even a carbon bike. And that's fine too - the best bike for you is the one that you are going to enjoy riding, that you look forward to taking out.