Thinking of a road bike, steel? Touring?

[BodhiTree]

It is possible to purchase shifters you prefer separately. Then have the bar-end shifters switched for the ones you like better.

[tiva]

I have the Cannondale synapse (feminine 5), which was my first road bike. I love it. I've had it for exactly two years, and the relatively-upright geometry works well for my body and my joint issues. It's actually a lot more comfortable for my elbows than my hybrid bike, oddly enough because my hybrid lets me right much more upright.

I've never tried a steel frame, so I can't compare it.

[Sky King]

It is possible to purchase shifters you prefer separately. Then have the bar-end shifters switched for the ones you like better.

yes, as long as you stay with drop bars, shimano only comes in 9 and 10 speeds. sunrace makes an 8 speed and we have been very happy with the quality.