Shoot, I have an '84 Raleigh--all steel--on 23s at 120 psi and an '83 Cannondale on 1 1/4x27 at 90 or 95 .... the C'dale has a steel fork and the Raleigh still seems to absorb bumps better .....
This is all anecdotal. I am Not making general claims or specific assertions, I am relating personal impressions. Others' mileage Will vary.