Originally Posted by
deraltekluge
Given her status as a "beginner", I seriously doubt that she would be able to tell the difference between aluminum and steel other than by testing it with a magnet.
Just because she is a beginner does not mean she has to make a mistake in her first purchase.
A steel frame will be more comfortable so ask the seller and get a magnet. I agree on the gears if they are not there you can't use them.