Road bikes can handle rough roads. I have over 30,000 mies on a Gunnar on all types of crap roads and even a little dirt, and I'm over 200#. I did the same type of riding on a CAAD 5 Cannondale but the ride was harsh compared to the Gunnar. I also have a Seven and it doesn't get any special treatment.

I always use 23 tires, I'm 58 and have old back injuries. A road bike is the only way to travel roads for me. Can't stand flat bars for very long.