Specialized Size's? and TARMAC vs ROUBAIX?

[The O]

Hi

 

Can any one PLS tell me the big ride/cycle diffrences for these 2 Specialized models? TARMAC vs ROUBAIX

 

I am currently on a Giant TCR 52 MED frame, TOP TUBE 555MM and use a 8cm stem. Saddle height 730mm

 

SPECIALIZED 54 TOP TUBE 548MM

                      56                 565MM

 

WHAT SIZE FRAME DO I BUY? I AM 176CM TALL

 

ANY ONE HAVE EITHER ABOVE TO SELL?

 

REGARDS

 

THE O

[Eugene]

Specialized uses normal sizing, so the 52 cm Medium Giant frame will be similar to the 54cm Specialized.

 

The Tarmac has a geometry aimed at racing (makes you sit lower and more forward), whereas the Roubaix is aimed at "comfort"(you have a more upright riding position) and it has all those funny Zertz inserts all over the place to absorb the vibrations. Although, there are many people who race the Roubaix too.

 

 

[Marius]

Buy the 54. I'm 181mm and ride a 56 and it feels a bit big for me.

[The O]

THANKS GUYS, i cycled on a roubaix tonight and it feels just as you say.

I like to get low down, Marius did you not sell a Tarmac a few months back? you still on one? any one know of a 54cm Tarmac 4 sale?

[Velouria]

I ride the Roubaix and love it - very comfortable ride. It is also slightly compact.

[Bike Mob]

get a 54. definately not a 56.

 

Tarmac is race and lower-

Roubaix is more for distance comfort

 

[ASTANA]

looks wise I would go for the tarmac. Nice bike

[cycleq]

Tarmac is best viewed as an all-out race bike with aggressive geometry that results in a more stretched, lower riding posture. The Roubaix is a race bike aimed more at endurance-type riding over greater distances or more demanding road surfaces. This has a taller head-tube which results in a more relaxed riding position as well as a longer wheelbase and the Zertz damping, very tuned fork, chain and seatstays which absorb road chatter. Your own shape/flexibility and most importantly, what you want to do with the bike, should decide your choice. I doubt anyone would find one bike "faster" than the other - they are aimed at different rider needs.

One of the Specialized BG Fitters will be able to assisit you with the correct sizing.

cycleq2009-09-29 07:48:15

[The O]

THANKS

[stringbean]

I am 174cm and my saddle height is also 730mm.I ride a 54cm tarmac.If i rode a roubaix i would ride a 52cm.I know you are looking at a SL2 but also look at the tarmac pro.A very good ride and a bit cheaper,a bit more comfortable than the SL2 i found.

[desmondalie]

i also moved from giant to specialized. We are the same height, but my saddle height slightly lower at 725cm, and I ride the 54cm. Should work for you as well.

 

 

 

Tarmac is a great ride. Our roads are not that bad and our races short, so you wont benefit from the roubiax that much.