tim b is right on.

if you live near the ocean, steel may rust quicker than inland. aluminum will beat you up if you live in the midwest where snowplows rip up the roads and the jarring is unbearable over longer rides.

if you are not riding mountains, does the slightly heavier (we are talking about a pound or two) ride of steel matter? no.

is steel repairable? yes.

does steel NEED carbon fiber forks, seatposts, seatstays, etc to dampen harsh rides? no.

are you trying to race (crits, etc) or commuting, or tooling around?!

both steel and Al frames act differently at different sizes. a 58cm handles differently than a 52cm.

steel frame with a straight steel fork and mavic kysrium wheels is sweet enough for moderate climbs of the midwest and longer comfort rides and for training.