Originally Posted by
sloar
I actually love the looks of a sleek carbon racing machine. But I will never own one, price for one reason. You can buy a much better vintage steel race bike for less than the price of an entry level carbon bike with crap components. Second is the actual feel of the ride. Now if you ride on glass smooth asphalt then they are great, but the rough chip seal country roads I ride on you will pee blood after a 20 mile ride. Give me an old steel bike anyday. And third, pay 5 grand for a new carbon bike and try to sell it 3-5 years later and see what kind of loss you have. I can usually make a little profit when I sell a steel bike.
Its true vintage steel will be cheaper, but it sounds like you've been riding the wrong carbon. I've ridden mine on chipseal (most of our local, rural roads composition), with 23mm high-pressure tires for 40+ miles with no issues. Just as comfy as my steel steeds, and a lot lighter. YMMV. Personally, I would not pay five grand for any bike, CF, steel or AL. Harley Davidson, maybe...