Specialized Roubaix Expert Review
- Price: $8000
- Frame: Carbon
- Tires: Front: Specialized Turbo Pro, 700x30mm, Rear: Specialized Turbo Pro, 700x30mm
- Gear: 2×12 Electronic
What we like about it: The brand-new Smooth Boot, stem cap, and Future Stem are visually stunning and eye-catching.
What we don’t like about it: It comes with a hefty price tag.
Rating: (4.9/5)
The Specialized Roubaix Expert with the new Future Shock 2.0 provides more control, and the Pavé seatpost adds balance to the bike. Every engineering decision for this bike has been made with the rider’s needs in mind. No matter how rugged the road is, I believe it can deliver the best riding experience.
Next, we will analyze the riding experience, key features, components, specifications, and other versions of the Specialized Roubaix Expert. In the latter part of this article, we will also compare it to several other top bike models. If you want to learn more about bike reviews, stay tuned.
Riding Experience
Endurance Riding
I booked a flight and a hotel on IHG, arriving on the outskirts of New York. Here, I chose a very long route to better test the Specialized Roubaix Expert.
The morning sun illuminated the road at the starting point, and with passion and determination, I mounted my endurance bike. The bike’s lightweight and stability gave me confidence, with each pedal stroke propelling me forward.
I began pedaling, feeling the comfort and stability of the frame. As the ride progressed, I encountered a rolling mountainous section. This is where I truly appreciated the advantages of the Specialized Roubaix Expert. The FACT 10R frame’s geometry and comfortable riding position allowed me to handle various road conditions without feeling overly fatigued. Every climb tested my endurance and determination, but the FACT 10R frame’s rigidity and flexibility enabled me to transfer energy more efficiently, smoothly conquering each slope.
Gradually, I reached a stretch of country roads. The stability and maneuverability of the Specialized Roubaix Expert allowed me to navigate between rolling roads effortlessly. I felt the cool breeze on my face, immersed in the embrace of nature.
Is That All?
I continued riding forward, reaching a long stretch of highway. The comfort and stability of the Specialized Roubaix Expert were especially crucial on this type of road. Every pedal stroke was silky smooth, and the S-Works Pave seatpost provided exceptional flexibility, reducing road vibrations. This allowed me to maintain a comfortable posture and sustained riding performance. I felt the perfect synergy between my body and the bike, converting energy into power effortlessly, making my way through long distances.
The finish line gradually appeared in my sight, and I didn’t feel any muscle soreness; instead, I was filled with a sense of achievement. The entire ride was very comfortable, and I could feel the powerful performance and comfortable geometry of the Specialized Roubaix Expert. This is the confidence that the Specialized Roubaix Expert has brought to me.
Specifications
The Specialized Roubaix Expert is an outstanding endurance bike. Its FACT 10R frame is lightweight, and stiff, and offers excellent aerodynamic performance. The Rider-First Engineered™ design ensures weight and riding quality. The all-new S-Works Pavé seatpost is flawless, providing extra flexibility and perfect bike balance.
Furthermore, the Shimano Ultegra R8150 front and rear derailleurs construct a 2×12 derailleur transmission, delivering precise and smooth shifting. It’s worth mentioning that the Specialized Turbo Pro tires are highly competitive, offering strong grip and excellent braking power, making the rider’s experience more comfortable and safe.
Other Versions
After undergoing numerous tests, we have gained a deeper understanding of this bike. It is an exceptionally impressive endurance bicycle.
However, many riders have specific performance or component requirements, so we have sought out similar types of bikes for further investigation.
Specialized S-Works Roubaix – Shimano Dura-Ace Di2
The Specialized S-Works Roubaix – Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 features a FACT 11R carbon fiber frame, which is lighter than the Specialized Roubaix Expert’s FACT 10R frame and offers better vibration absorption. The 11R material used is E630, an ultra-high modulus asphalt-based carbon fiber with a tensile modulus of 63 tons, providing excellent stiffness. In contrast, the 10R material is E390, a high-modulus carbon fiber with a tensile modulus of 40 tons. Currently, 11R is the top-tier carbon fiber.
It’s worth noting that the components on the Specialized S-Works Roubaix – Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 include Dura-Ace Di2, whereas the Specialized Roubaix Expert uses Ultegra Di2. Ultegra Di2 is suitable for mid to high-end road bikes and offers affordability, while Dura-Ace Di2 is Shimano’s flagship product designed for professional-level road racing and comes at a premium price, suitable for experienced riders.
What do we like about it?
- The visually striking new Smooth Boot, stem cap, and Future Stem are attention-grabbing.
- Impressive climbing and descending capabilities.
- Enhanced rider comfort through patented technology that reduces vertical stiffness.
- Two bottle cages for convenient hydration on long rides.
What don’t we like about it?
- Expensive.
FAQ
- Is this bike suitable for beginners?
This bike is suitable for both beginners and experienced riders.
- How many color options are available for this bike?
It comes in two color options: Teal Tint/Ice Papaya/Black Reflective and Smoke/Tarmac Black/Silver Dust/Black Reflective.
- Does this bike have good aerodynamics?
With its Pavé seatpost and FACT 10R carbon fiber frame structure, it offers excellent aerodynamics, providing increased speed.
- Is this bike better for long-distance riding or short-distance sprints?
It excels in both long-distance riding and short-distance sprints.
Specs
Build
| Frame | FACT 10R, Rider First Engineered™ (RFE), FreeFoil Shape Library tubes, threaded BB, 12x142mm thru-axle, flat-mount disc BB Standard: BSA, 68mm, Threaded Colors: Teal Tint/ Ice Papaya/ Black Reflective; Smoke / Tarmac Black/silver Dust/black Reflective |
| Fork | Future Shock 2.0 w/ Smooth Boot, 12x100mm thru-axle, flat-mount disc |
| Bottom Bracket | Shimano Threaded BSA BB |
| Stem | Future Stem, Pro |
| Handlebar | Specialized Hover Expert, Alloy, 125mm Drop, 75mm Reach w/Di2 Hole |
| Saddle | Body Geometry Power Expert |
| Seatpost | S-Works Pave |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | Shimano Ultegra R8150, 12-speed |
| Front Derailleur | Shimano Ultegra R8150, braze-on |
| Crank | Shimano Ultegra R8100, 50/34T |
| Shifters | Shimano Ultegra R8170, hydraulic disc |
| Cassette | Shimano Ultegra, 12-speed, 11-34t |
| Chain | Shimano Ultegra, 12-speed |
| Brakes | Shimano Ultegra R8170, hydraulic disc |
Wheels
| Rims | Front: Roval C38, 21mm internal width carbon rim, Rear: Roval C38, 21mm internal width carbon rim |
| Tires | Front: Specialized Turbo Pro, 700x30mm, Rear: Specialized Turbo Pro, 700x30mm |
Comparison Table
| Bikes | Click view | Tires | Drivetrain | Frame Material | Groupset |
| Trek Domane SL 6 Gen 4 | Click View | Bontrager R3 Hard-Case Lite 700x32mm | 2×12 Electronic | Carbon | Shimano 105 Di2 |
| Fezzari Empire SL Team Edition | Click View | Maxxis High Road 28c | 2×12 Electronic | Carbon | SRAM RED eTap |
| BMC Roadmachine 01 THREE | Click View | Vittoria Corsa N.EXT – 28mm | 2×12 Electronic | Carbon | Shimano Ultegra Di2 |
| Argon 18 Krypton Pro SRAM Force AXS | Click View | Vittoria Rubino Pro G2.0 TLR 700x30c | 2×12 Electronic | Carbon | SRAM Force eTap |
Specialized Roubaix Expert vs. Trek Domane SL 6 Gen 4
The Specialized Roubaix Expert features carbon wheels, while the Trek Domane SL 6 Gen 4 has aluminum wheels. Carbon fiber wheels not only look sleek but also offer lightweight performance. They provide quick acceleration, reduce wind resistance during rides, and offer a visually appealing appearance. On the other hand, aluminum wheels are budget-friendly and excel in impact resistance. In general, aluminum wheels can still be used after enduring sharp impacts, but they have lower weld strength.
Moreover, the Specialized Roubaix Expert has a larger ratio of stack/reach, allowing riders to maintain an upright position. This also provides better flexibility, resulting in a more comfortable riding experience. Conversely, a smaller ratio of stack/reach makes the bike’s geometry more aggressive. Riders will lean forward, requiring greater pedal force for acceleration.
Learn More: Is Trek Domane SL 5 Gen 4 A Perfect Selection? – [Trek Domane SL 5 Gen 4 Review]
Specialized Roubaix Expert vs. Fezzari Empire SL Team Edition
The Fezzari Empire SL Team Edition boasts a slightly faster speed of 64 km/h. In comparison, the Specialized Roubaix Expert has a speed of 63 km/h, just slightly slower. However, the geometry of the Fezzari Empire SL Team Edition is more aggressive, with a ratio of stack/reach at 1.45, causing the rider’s body to lean forward. This may not provide the level of comfort typically desired for an endurance bike. On the other hand, the Specialized Roubaix Expert has a larger ratio of stack/reach (1.58), allowing riders to enjoy a more comfortable experience during long-distance rides.
The head tube angle of the Specialized Roubaix Expert is slightly larger than that of the Fezzari Empire SL Team Edition. A larger head tube angle positions the front wheel closer to the rider, offering quick and responsive steering capabilities. However, it can lead to instability and twitchiness during high-speed riding. The Specialized Roubaix Expert also has a substantial BB drop of 76 mm. While this increases stability, the lower pedals might pose challenges when leaning into sharp turns.
Learn More: Is Fezzari Empire SL Team Edition Shimano Worth Buying?- [Fezzari Empire SL Team Edition Shimano Review]
Specialized Roubaix Expert vs. BMC Roadmachine 01 THREE
These two bikes have essentially identical components, both featuring the Shimano Ultegra Di2 2×12 Electronic Drivetrain. They also share carbon frames, forks, and 700c tires, with minimal performance differences. So, their specific distinctions lie in their geometry.
The Specialized Roubaix Expert has a larger ratio of stack/reach (1.58), a larger 73.5° head tube angle, and a greater BB drop compared to the BMC Roadmachine 01 THREE. Additionally, its trail measurement is slightly smaller than that of the BMC Roadmachine 01 THREE. Overall, the Specialized Roubaix Expert offers a more comfortable riding experience with excellent handling capabilities, while the BMC Roadmachine 01 THREE has a more aggressive geometry, making it a more aggressive choice for riding.
Learn More: Is BMC Roadmachine X Two Worth Buying? [BMC Roadmachine X Two Review]
Specialized Roubaix Expert vs. Argon 18 Krypton Pro SRAM Force AXS
The Argon 18 Krypton Pro SRAM Force AXS boasts a 40c tire clearance, allowing for wider tires to be fitted. Wider tires offer more substantial support on loose, soft terrain, while narrower tires provide greater agility and maneuverability. These two bikes share many similarities, but the Argon 18 Krypton Pro SRAM Force AXS has a slightly higher top speed, reaching 67 km/h.
It’s worth noting that the Specialized Roubaix Expert uses Shimano Ultegra components, while the Argon 18 Krypton Pro SRAM Force AXS is equipped with SRAM Force eTAP AXS. Shimano Ultegra utilizes a single large rechargeable battery hidden inside the seatpost, accessible via a wired PC connection (not available on iOS) or Bluetooth connection to tablet or smartphone apps. On the other hand, SRAM Force eTAP AXS features removable batteries on the derailleurs and button cells on the shifters, allowing for customization and battery monitoring through smartphone apps (available for both Android and iOS).
Summary
This is our review of the Specialized Roubaix Expert. It is an exceptional endurance bike that delivers outstanding performance for endurance riding, earning it a high rating of 4.9. If you’re seeking more information about bicycles, feel free to explore our other reviews.
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