What are the benefits of steel tube road race bike frames to carbon or aluminium?
I wonder why my beloved Cinelli still produces Colombus steel tube frames for both road and track… They surely know it better than me 
In a nutshell…..
Steel gives a comfy ride but usually heavier than Aluminium or Carbon
Good for long distance, easy to repair.
Aluminium is lighter than steel but a harsher ride (you feel the bumps more) Also cheaper! (Aluminium framed bikes often have a Carbon or steel fork to offset the harsh ride)
Carbon is more expensive and can be the lighter of the three but depending on how the frame is formed, it may be a harsh ride or smooth (although usually, not as comfy or strong, as steel)
I generally ride a full carbon Cervelo R3 – Although the Cervelo S2 (Aluminium) is faster, due to its Aerodynamics !!!
In terms of durability then it’s:- Steel; Aluminium; Carbon. in that order.
On a flat surface such as a track, then weight is not a issue, emphasis is on aerodynamics and power transfer.
Could go on for ages about this, but I kept it simple !
Hope this helps?
AClass Wheels – ALX820 Carbon Wheels, ALX730 Road Tubeless, Solo Pro Fixie Wheels