Hi there,

Newbie question from someone who is only just getting acquainted with the different bike frame materials!

I've been lusting after all-carbon frames...and have liked a lot of the ones I've recently tried (especially the Specialized Ruby). I ride hills/rough roads, and love how the carbon dampens the ride jitters.

But then, just for kicks, I tried a STEEL bike today that has a carbon fork. It had a *very* nice ride! so I would love to try some others. You gals know of other bike models that are steel with carbon forks? (The one I tried today was the Bianchi Imola - I didn't care for the geometry - too much reach for my short torso - but *loved* the ride.)

Here's a related question. How true is it that all-carbon bikes are more fragile/breakable while steel bikes are more durable? I guess I am hearing that everywhere, but want to know how important this is. If I ride hills all the time, what are my chances over say 5 years of irreperably damaging an all-carbon bike versus a steel bike? Are there particular carbon manufacturers who are known for creating more durable bikes (or replacing them after crashes)?

The grumpy guy in the bike store really doesn't like carbon.

Thanks in advance

Mariposa