Steel vs. Aluminium

Agreed.

My point is with this thread was that I find steel a better more comfortable ride, steel is less likely to completely fail when it cracks and TBH I find them more attractive. Ally frames don't have some of the beautiful lug work etc., like some fine steel frames do.

BUT this is my own opinion

All frames can break. If you think a brand new OTP alu frame is more likely to break than a 30 year old steel frame with dubious provenance then you're probably a bit dim.

Hey no need to be rude...steel frames crack and ally fails completely. I know this from dirt jump bikes and bmx having been ridding them for over 20 years. Yes any old frame will fail but I have never snapped a steel one where ally ones have snapped in two.

For my 2p, aluminium has a shorter life span, quality steel will last far longer if looked after. Other than that its a purely personal preference, I ride my aluminium far more because I like it.

Steel fails too, it doesn't just crack. I have broken, steel, alu and carbon frames. In 20 odd years of riding bikes I've seen more steel frames fail than any other material. All anecdotal evidence of course, but that's better than something you read on the internet.

As for comfort - another myth, it really depends on how frames are build, not what they are built from. Some of the most harsh, unforgiving frames I have owned have been high quality lugged steel and I've also owned some very comfortable aluminium frames.
Besides, contact points and tyre pressures have a much greater impact on comfort than frame material ever can.

Buy a van Nicholas and you will break titanium as well?

but not the bank?

TBH I have actually found carbon the most comfortable but that my preference. Experience with jump bikes I will say Chromo will always be my choice as I haven't had one snap as yet but of course alloy is always gonna be somewhat lighter I guess. When it comes to 'proper' bikes I think if the bike fits properly then there isn't gonna be a problem. Though steel is my choice as I think if its quality it has more finesse in looks and I find it less harsh to ride.

Next question Carbon Vs. Metal LOL

Here is a fence. Would you like to sit on it?

A C50 felt as flexy as the Etape.

You can´t beat a Vitus 979!