Need some guidance....(long)

[sundial]

Steel. Bike.
Steel is one smooth ride.

I have to agree, Modern.

I have a "plush bike" Roubaix and a Salsa Fargo and between the two bikes the Fargo is more comfie for those big mileage days. Steel rides like velvet and absorbs more road noise, resulting in reduced fatigue of the hands, wrists, and neck if the bike is fitted correctly. And you can often get steel at a better bargain.

Would you want to order a bike frame and build it up to your specs?