Originally Posted by mtnbke

I avoid steel bikes like the plague. Certainly there is a cult of those that love steel, and they repeat the mantra 'steel is real'. I think if you say it long enough you start to believe it.

However, even the best steel bike leaves something to be desired. A classic Klein or Cannondale give such an incredible ride that's its impossible to compare to a vintage (or modern) steel bike. It would be like comparing your grandfathers truck to a Maserati.

Its not a popular perspective, but the reality is that aluminum, carbon, and titanium just build 'better' bikes than steel. The reason so many boutique builders work with steel is because its cheap. The skill level required to braze lugged steel bikes can not be compared to learning to TIG weld. Sure lugs are aesthetically pleasing, but they just don't build into epic bikes. A bike's soul is the frame and the wheelset. Starting with steel is starting with a compromise.

A blowout or a loss of steering on a technical descent or on a busy road could cost you your life.