Specialized Roubaix Comp v. Orbea Mitis

I am in the same position as you (although I am 205 pounds and losing). I am trying to decide between the Specialized Roubaix Comp, the Specialized Sequoia Expert and the Trek Pilot 5.0.

I, too, would be interested in hearing other views on a bike that will be used primarily for long event rides (MS 150, the Tour de Cure, etc). I will not be racing, but I would like to keep up a reasonable pace for five to six hours per day.

i have the specialized allez sport (aluminium frame) and roubaix elite. personally, i prefer the roubaix elite on long distance rides. i took part in a 120km race back in april and i doubt i would have completed the race on the allez. nowadays, i use the allez sport for rides less than 50km and the roubaix for rides greater than 50km.

one other thing about the roubaix is that it the frame geometry results in a more upright posture compared to the allez sport, which makes long distance riding more comfortable. so it's not just the frame material but also the geometry that determines comfort.

bottom line for me: if i want a racy feel, i'll ride the allez. if i want to survive a long distance ride, then it's the roubaix. YMMV.

boon

Dont forget to try the Tarmac...I tried the Roubaix, and it felt like riding a truck after the tarmac..and the Tarmac is much more comfortable than a Trek 1000, which is what I have. Takes a bit to get use to the racing sitting position.

rjg001 said:

I test rode a number of bikes today in a quest to upgrade from my Trek 1000 and think I am down to these two. The Roubaix Comp is carbon frame with 105 components except for the ultegra rear derailleur. The Mitis is aluminum frame with carbon form and rear triangle and full ultegra. Both have carbon compact cranks. Both are great bikes.

The Specialized is a little smoother and of course has the compact geometry. The Orbea, while not technically a compact geometry, is more relaxed than my current ride, is more responsive and I liked the ultegra stuff better.

I am about 185 lbs (and losing) and try to ride 100+ miles per week. Most rides are 25-35 miles with the occasional 60+ rides. Plan to do a century before the end of the year.

On the one hand, I found the Orbea to be more fun during my test ride given that it felt faster and more responsive. On the other hand, one of the things I am trying to get away from is the harsher ride of my current aluminum frame and don't want to regret not having the full carbon frame the first time I do 3 hours plus on the bike.

Anyone have any thoughts on these bikes or suggestions as to other things I should take into consideration (other than to look at other bikes - I've ridden about nine and am pretty sure I will be happy with either of these two, just struggling with that final pull of the trigger)?