Is there a women specific steel bike?

[mzone]

This is not WSD specific, but it may fit your needs. I've been checking it out as a possible loaded touring bike. Unfortunately I don't think it will carry quite enough weight for me, or I'd drop my commuter and ride this the majority of the time. It's a great multi-purpose, kind of a retro-look bike.

http://allcitycycles.com/bikes/space_horse

[Catrin]

The Long Haul Trucker isn't women specific, but that being said, even with my long legs and short arms I've had an easier time fitting a non-WSD frame to me than I've had with WSD. Don't be afraid to test ride/consider as many bikes as possible. You can be surprised what might wind up working for you! Jamis is also a good recommendation.

[ZenBiker]

See if you can find a Salsa Vaya to test ride too. It's right around your top end price but if you like it you could probably find last year's model going for a little less. I got one last year to use as my commuter bike and love it. Shops that carry Surly will sometimes have Salsas as well.

Edited to add: the Vaya 3 is the one that's close to your price range. The Vaya 2 is the more expensive version.

[Kernyl]

Jamis Quest. To die for.