The question is not if cyclocross is right for you, but are YOU right for cyclocross?
Therein you shall find your answer.
P.S. I have an '06 Poprad (with cantis-- I'm glad to see they realized their error for '07 and brought the cantis back for the '08 model). I really like it. Yes-- steel is good-- make sure you treat the inside with framesaver!
Surly makes awesome stuff that is well thought out.