Originally Posted by Reality33

The 08 Madone (if still the way it was stock) will have a few advantages over the 4.3. It has better wheels (Race-lite compared to the heavy TLR wheels that come on the 4.3), Ultegra groupset, and a better carbon layup (OCLV Black which is probably close to the OCLV 500 series of today.) It was also still made in Wisconsin if that matters to you.

The Domane 4.3 is a nice bike and the iso speed system works great. It is very comfortable when you hit the bumpy stuff and great on long rides.

Both bikes (once again I am assuming are both stock) have 10 speed groupsets, so when it comes to kit, the Madone wins hand down alone for better wheels, carbon in the frame and groupset.

I test rode both not too long ago. A Madone 7 series and Domane 5.2 I rode away with the Domane because I was looking for something to do longer rides on. The comfort level was just light years ahead and that with the more relaxed "endurance" geometry was a nice change from my other bikes. It did take me a while to get used to riding with the ISO Speed rear as at first it felt very "floaty" and not connected to the road, especially in downhill corners. After a while I was used to it and really love the bike.

With the two bikes you are looking at, the Madone may be more comfortable due to the higher grade carbon in the frame. It is hard to tell on paper, so if you can, try and ride both bikes. Either one is a great ride.