PatKendall,
Two weeks ago my wife and I were in Walnut Creek, CA and took the opportunity to stop by Rivendell. I'm happy to report these people are the real deal; true bicycle enthusiasts. I got the opportunity to meet Grant as well as a couple other members of the staff, and I can honestly say they practice what they preach. Shortly after we arrived, Grant rode up on his current commuter, a prototype in development, and wasn’t wearing a stich of lycra. He didn’t look at all like what I had pictured in my mind, nor did he behave like so many anti-Rivendell posters would like you to believe.
We were there because my wife was interested in the Betty Foy. I was just interested in checking out Rivendell. We fully disclosed the fact we were just looking, but they still took the time to measure us both and encouraged us to go for a ride. I, on the A. Holmer Hilsen and she on the Betty Foy.
We were both impressed by the quality of the product and the quality of the ride. What’s interesting is that we were both put on frames much larger than you’d expect. For example, I currently ride two different vintage 58cm road bike frames. The Hilsen they set me up on was a 65cm. If I hadn’t personally experienced it, I would have never believed it.
My advice regarding the Roubaix wouldn’t be to give up on it, but I wouldn’t try to make it into something it isn’t. If you can afford both, and have room in the stable, I’d certainly consider a Hilborne. I’ve got nothing against the Roubaix. I’d like to have one myself. But I think it is a different tool and in most cases fits a different purpose than a fat tire Hilborne.