Thanks ladies! I think it just got complicated because one store wanted to sell me a 2009 cyclocross bike that they had reduced (it was a nice aluminum frame with carbon forks but not what I wanted) and I got the impression that they weren't going to help me get a Cross Check. One store showed me one bike that was not steel and then ignored me. Another store had just moved the week before and was a little disorganized and a little busy, but said he didn't think I needed a steel frame. And I actually went to a fourth store but didn't count them because it was just a bunch of kids in the store and no one even talked to me! So then I felt I had to figure it all out on my own and just order what I want! I have some holidays coming up in a few weeks, maybe I will try to get into a store during a week day when they may not be so busy and will take the time to listen to me!