What is great is how many excellent choices there are for bike frames these days. What is confusing is how many excellent choices there are for bike frames these days.

I tried carbon fiber, ti, aluminum, and steel this summer. Did a ton of riding and comparisons and ended up with a Serotta steel frame bike. For me the ti frame was not as comfy and I felt more of the road in my hands and arms after a long day on the road. I did like carbon fiber but I think that steel is more durable and easier to maintain and easier to fix in case of an accident.

There are so many good bikes to choose from you should just pick the one that fits and that feels right to you. This will vary according to your riding style, terrain, etc.

As to custom frame or not.......if you are new to riding I would stick with a stock frame until you get a year or two of riding experience. That will give you a chance to get familiar with the kind of riding you want to do and with all of the options and bike manufacturers available to you before making that (very expensive) investment in a custom bike.

Whatever path you choose I hope you end up with a bike that you love!

traveller