I've done everything on my steel Bianchi roadie from relatively fast training rides to centuries to multi-day tours in the hills and mountains of Tennessee. It's super comfy. I'm not sure I agree that steel bikes aren't for racing and speed. It depends on the tubing and the geometry. The current market is such that most of the steel bikes on the market are touring or commuter bikes and are typically heavier. There are still a handful of off the rack steel roadies available though. Jamis and Bianchi come to mind. And used remains an option, too, if you know what you're looking for.