Allez for long-distance rides ?

kfb said:

Anyone here ever ride an Allez bike for long distance rides, or is it best for shorter rides and racing?

Most of my training rides will be between 20-50 miles, but I also intend to do some group rides like Ragbrai (week long ride across Iowa), as well as ocassional century rides. I can pick up a left-over 04' Allez Comp for appx $1400, or a left over 04' Roubaix Elite for $1650 ...... any thoughts on which is the better deal?

Thanks!

I have an '04 Allez Comp and I love it! I ride about 110-170 miles per week, including a weekly 50 mile ride, and it is very easy on my butt. I haven't ridden further than about 60 miles on it, but I wouldn't hesitate doing a Century on it.

The Roubaix is nice too, but I prefer the stiffness/responsiveness of the Allez. The carbon seatpost with the Zertz insert doesn't get mentioned much, but it is one of the best things about the Allez - it seems to really smooth out the ride and eliminate that "buzz" of an aluminum frame. The Roubaix has even more Zertz inserts - in the fork and seatstays, but I would hate for the frame to be put at risk with this new technology. A broken seatpost I can deal with.

As an aside, a lot of folks complain about the Body Geometry Pro Saddle, but it is the most comfortable saddle I have ever used. I am on the lighter side (155 LBS) and I haven't ridden too many other saddles, so my experiences may not be relevant to everyone...

Good luck.

Thanks for the reply.

I test rode one of each this morning, and i've decided to go with the roubaix. I didn't dislike the allez, but I did find the roubaix to be much more comfortable for me. I'm less of a racer, and more of a fitness rider, so i'm thinking the roubaix will be the better fit.