Sequoia Elite v. Jamis Nova

Those are two bikes are about as opposite one another as you can get.

I own a Sequoia Elite and the only thing that wouldn't be worthy of touring are the wheels. See if you can swap them out for something simple like Mavic Open Pro rims and Ultegra hubs or some such thing. I didn't care for the Milano seat either but that depends on the rider.

rothar said:

Hello all. I'm a new member and am looking to get my first true road bike. I'm 48 and about 5'11" 215. I've been riding a 35 lb ScottUSA trail bike with touring tires for the last couple of years. Took it over the Pyrenees in September on the way to Santiago de Compestela which made me realize I need something lighter and more aerodynamic. I'll never be a racer but enjoy 40-60 mile juants over varied terrain and the odd century now and again. Like to do a week or so credit card tour with the boys once a year so something that I can slap a rack and panniers on annually is needed. The above two seem as though they might fit the bill. I was really taken with the Specialized Roubaix 27 but don't think it would be appropriate for light touring. Any feedback on these or other models would be appreciated.

I would take the Jamis as it has better wheels for durability. Crossed spokes distribute dynamic loads better. The "trendy" radial spoke patterns seen on Sequoia Elite, etc. are not good for spokes, rims, or hubs. Most hub manufacturers don't warantee their hubs for radial spoking.
Jamis Nova has bigger tires and more clearance if you ever consider fenders.
If your route has grades of 8% or more and you are carrying more than just credit card touring load, you might want lower gearing.
Since you have been over the Pyrenees you know what I mean about gearing.
I would also put on KoolStop Salmon color brake pads.... and no, I don't work for or have any financial interest in KoolStop, Jamis, or Specialized.