Roubaix SL8 Apex - The Review Specialized Doesn't Want You to See

Рет қаралды 5,281

4 ай бұрын

I'm of the opinion that some of today's bikes are over engineered, over priced, and over marketed. I recently got the opportunity to ride one of these wonder bikes and see if my mind changed. At $4000 the Roubaix SL8 Sport falls in the middle of the range, with the top end S-Works version selling for almost 3 times as much. I was able to get some solid riding in and here's my review.

Пікірлер: 17

@ugomarsolais 2 ай бұрын

Nice review! I have a Roubaix SL8 Sport 105, which is a notch down from your model since it doesn't have electronic shifting, but rather the Shimano 105, actually the newer one with the 12 speed cassette. It's nice although not sure it's such a big difference with 11 speed. I love the Roubaix. First off, the Future Shock is fantastic. You don't notice its operation because it's subtle and smooth, but it does make riding on worn and cracked pavement less jarring and more comfortable. You didn't talk about it, but the Pave seatpost on Roubaix flexes too to absorb bumps. The geometry is really comfortable. The S-Works Mondo tires are great. And I agree with you: although it's a road bike, it can do light gravel too. Throw in 35mms or higher and it does become a pretty good gravel bike.

@gattmolson 2 ай бұрын

Thanks, I didn't really feel much from the pave seatpost, I get the idea of fixing it low in the frame for more movement, but the rear felt much harsher than the front to me.

@fwa3atl 2 ай бұрын

Matt - this was an excellent review...you covered enough but your comments, and recordings were spot on. I own the 2022 Roubaix Comp that has SRAM eTap electronic shifting. I purchased mine amid COVID-19 and went to Chicago (900 miles away) to purchase it. The Roubaix to me is the most comfortable road/endurance bike on the road. Outdoing the Domane (which I've also owned). Yes, with our "new" economy all bikes not just this bike will throw EVERYONE back financially. I bit the bullet and have not one regret. The future shock (adjustable) on my bike is a charm. Thank you for this review.

@gattmolson 2 ай бұрын

Thanks for the feedback. The only thing I didn't really cover was the seat post design which was the only part of the bike I didn't like.

@bullonabike 4 ай бұрын

When you have a 2x and can program specific presets for shifting it’s awesome

@hankd56 4 ай бұрын

I love my Roubaix! It's not quite as fancy as that one, but is very capable and comfy on long rides.

@Carbonfuchs Ай бұрын

Excellent review. I have ridden it and for me its not a Gravelbike and not a racy Roadbike. Instead of buying a Roubaix i would like to recommend buying a Diverge if diversity is the topic. With two sets of wheels it is as fast as the Roubaix. Greeting from Germany🙋‍♂️

@gattmolson Ай бұрын

Excellent advice.

@Nicool333 Ай бұрын

Had a roubaix for many years. Great bike. Upgraded to a titanium bike which definitely is a step above (for me) but the price premium is huge and may not be worth it from a utilitarian perspective.

@otherfish 2 ай бұрын

great review! thank you

@kirilblagoev5543 23 күн бұрын

Very helpful review. That is my bike. :) Thank you!

@gabrielcarlothomas 4 ай бұрын

Good subjects for next SOIL Cycling Pod.

@jessa.3857 Ай бұрын

How fast can one go on a Roubaix? I'm not talking Tarmac or Allez fast but faster than a hybrid bike I hope?!?

@gattmolson Ай бұрын

As fast as your legs will propel you.

@jessa.3857 Ай бұрын

@@gattmolson I suppose I don't need a road bike then. One last question....Is it easier to go faster and hold speed on a road bike than a hybrid bike?

@gattmolson Ай бұрын

@@jessa.3857 Yes for sure, any road bike will be faster than hybrid because you will have less rolling resistance in the tires and a more aerodynamic riding position. You will definitely hold speed better.