i just purchased an '05 Specialized Roubaix Pro (carbon fiber) and really am impressed with the ride quality. i also own a '03 Cannondale Team Saeco (aluminum) and the difference in ride comfort is incredible.
the Cannondale is a great bike -- very quick and responsive, but you feel every bump in the road. the Roubaix does not feel as quick, but rides like a dream. it has a little less extreme frame geometry than the Cannondale.
i thought about buying the Cannondale 613 because of the carbon fiber/aluminum frame. but i thought that even though it would ride smoother than my Cannondale, it would probably be similar in handling. so i opted for the Roubaix. now i can ride the Cannondale when i want to feel the road (perhaps shorter training rides), and the Roubaix when i want to have a smooth ride (perhaps longer rides).
if anyone is thinking about a new bike, definitely check out the new Roubaix.
the Cannondale is a great bike -- very quick and responsive, but you feel every bump in the road. the Roubaix does not feel as quick, but rides like a dream. it has a little less extreme frame geometry than the Cannondale.
i thought about buying the Cannondale 613 because of the carbon fiber/aluminum frame. but i thought that even though it would ride smoother than my Cannondale, it would probably be similar in handling. so i opted for the Roubaix. now i can ride the Cannondale when i want to feel the road (perhaps shorter training rides), and the Roubaix when i want to have a smooth ride (perhaps longer rides).
if anyone is thinking about a new bike, definitely check out the new Roubaix.