so I test rode a specialized roubaix expert and a serotta fierte steel bike today. Serotta felt more comfortable - had bontrager race wheels and full shimano ultegra, roubaix had 105 components. The roubaix felt a little faster in my mind although i may be mistaking that for twitchiness in the front end? I realize i am at two different price points and I am probably comparing apples to oranges. Tomorrow i ride a giant tcr c2 and a felt. Forgive the poor grammer and punctuation but i am excited. Any thoughts, comments etc appreciated as I am new to all this stuff. Serotta is pricey.

Frankly, buy the one that makes your heart race. It's kind of like going out with a fine lady, selecting your bike. You go with the bike....and the lady that make you feel alive. ;)

Get the one that you'll always look forward to riding.

I forgive all typos as others forgive mine

A Roubaix Expert should come with all ultegra components, nothing less, someones been doing some switching.

Buy the one you are most comfortable with and will allow you to improve in the future, but buy it from the LBS that you trust the most.

Everyone will have a different view, remember your the one that has to ride it! Get what feels good!!!

As someone who just went through all this, my advise is to ride as many bikes as possible. If there is a bike that interest you, but that is not built in your size, see if the shop can build one up for you to ride. Take the top 2 or 3 that you like the best, and ride them again as close to back to back as possible. Most likely a couple of bikes will stand out as the ones that you like.Also, consider the shops after the sale service as part of the choice. A good shop will spend time fitting you and add enjoyment to the bike that you buy. One last note, this is many shops busiest time of the year, and many models are starting to sell out until 2009 models are available. 2009's are going to run 10 to 15 percent more, so take your time deciding, but not too long.

thanks guys - i will let you know what i decide shortly

You have to go with what speaks to you personally when you both ride and see it, after fit considerations.

That being said, ....MMMMMM Serotta steel. :love:

i got the serotta - it spoke to me as everyone said - will be riding tomorrow - very nice ride - never been on a bike that i felt i could ride all day. some of the other bikes i tested felt faster as i previously said - but i ended up going for "comfort" in the end

i got the serotta - it spoke to me as everyone said - will be riding tomorrow - very nice ride - never been on a bike that i felt i could ride all day. some of the other bikes i tested felt faster as i previously said - but i ended up going for "comfort" in the end

An excellent choice! Now you should send it to me so I can make sure it's properly tuned and safe:D

Did I mention, MMMM Serotta!