Originally Posted by xroadcharlie

There is a misconception that because a bike is steel it's going to be heavy. There are plenty of new aluminum comfort and mountian bikes that weigh 30+ lbs. Which is why I wouldn't buy a bike based on the frame or fork material alone. The overall design including the geometry IMO are far more important.

Indeed, Steel might very well have an advantage in terms of compliance and toughness. Especially with entry level to average priced bikes. Which improves both comfort and speed. I'm sure we can and do build aluminum frames that are compliant too, But it may take more engineering experience and cost to manufacture.