Help me pick my second bike!

[Bike Chick]

I've become very fond of steel. I've had aluminum and carbon and now steel and love the look and ride of steel. FWIW, my new Luna weighs less than my carbon Trek Pilot. I've also just bought a carbon tri bike and for comparison, DH and I weighed the carbon bike and my Luna and my Luna weighs over 2 pounds LESS than the carbon bike. I realize they are two different types of bike but that throws the "steel is too heavy" argument out the window. I also think steel is a better choice for touring--especially if you are adding racks.

You have so many choices in bikes shops where you live and can go ride about anything you would like. Go ride different bikes and then decide. You might also want to check out North Central Cyclery in Dekalb. They carry 4-5 differents brands of steel frame bikes and only had 3 or 4 carbon bikes in the whole store.

Congratulations on your Masters! I can't think of a better way to reward yourself for your hard work!