I’ve just sold my Cannondale R700 which never quite fit right. I’ve just test ridden the Specialized Roubaix comp and the geometry fits me perfectly.
Problem is, I can’t afford $2700 for it.
Any recommendations on other manufacturers whose frame mimics the Roubaix that I could test ride?
So far Cannondale, Kuota, and Wilier all seem to not have the same type of comfort that the Roubaix did for me. They are all carbon bikes though, and all about the same sizes, so i assume it’s about the geometry…
Thanks!
You may find it’s a lot more than just the geometry. The Roubaix frame is built with some neat features to enhance the comfort of the ride - tricks that can only be done with carbon. The frame was designed originally as a bike for the one day classics (like Paris-Roubaix, for which it is named), where you ride on some ungodly rough roads. So there is a significant amount of vertical flex built into the frame.
Of course, there are also some geometrical features designed to pair up with this sort of riding as well - most notably a taller headtube. But most people will know right away if it’s simply more comfortable because it is a taller bike. If that’s not your sensation, then it very well may be the overall compliance - which is much harder to replicate - than the tallness of the frame.
If you wish to find a similar geometry frame to test, try out some cyclocross bikes, which are generally closer to Roubaix style geometry, which is logical since the line from road->cross type courses probably falls somewhere along the lines of what the guys racing the Classics ride on. Cross frames are also usually a fair bit cheaper.
I’ve never considered a cyclocross bike before. My gola is to be able to be comfortable enough on the bike to go out for 40-60 miles and enjoy it rather than being in pain between my shoulders or in my neck.
Are cyclocross bikes intended for that kind of distance on roads?
I’ve never considered a cyclocross bike before. My gola is to be able to be comfortable enough on the bike to go out for 40-60 miles and enjoy it rather than being in pain between my shoulders or in my neck.
Are cyclocross bikes intended for that kind of distance on roads?
Cyclocross bikes are. Cyclocross TIRES are not.
Did you try the Cannondale Synapse? It has the taller head tube, longer chainstays and design features to allow vertical flex for comfort. Bikes like Kuota"s offerings are more traditional racing geometry.
I agree with the Rapp in looking at a cross bike. If you swap the cross tires for slicks its close to road bike fast with the added benefit of being able to use it on dirt road rides.
Kevin
don’t mean to be rude, but are you sure you are fit/setup correctly?
Cervelo RS
I thought the same, but I’m guessing you missed the part about wanting an alternative because the price was too high for an all-carbon frame. The RS is a $2500 frameset.
Specialized makes a lower cost version called Sectour. I think it is aluminum but same basic geometry. I have an '09 Roubaix Pro and love it. Best road bike I have ever owned.
Pick up a used one off of ebay
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what year did specialized change to the current frame design? 2009?
2009 and 2010 are the same. They now have an even newer model out for 2011 with some tweaks for Di2 and changes to how the zertz inserts are installed. Try to find yourself a nice used '09 and you will be very happy.
As someone else mentioned sounds as if your position is not optimal on the bike i.e: too stretched out and/or too low in the cockpit/front-end. Find a professional fitter in your area that can make that pain go away on your current bike.