Here’s my 1990 Cannondale ST600 set up for a sub 24 hour overnighter. I went from a lugged steel 1994 Trek 620 touring bike, to this Cannondale. My Trek was in fantastic condition and was a great bike, as is this Cannondale. There’s honestly no comparison though. This Cannondale is leaps and bounds better than the steel Trek in just about every way. It’s so comfortable, stable, fast and smooth. I hope I never have to go back to a steel touring bike.
If anyone tells you that aluminum bikes have a harsh ride, make sure that they have actually ridden many miles on a good quality aluminum bike, and aren’t just repeating myths they have heard.