Originally Posted by
Swede1
I guess I could go a little higher, just want to make sure I am happy and no second guessing a week after i buy it
Specialized Roubaix Elite with stock components. Love it!
With your road background, I might suggest an XC hardtail with fast rolling tires and 29" wheels.
https://www.specialized.com/us/en/ep...ext=91319-3102
https://www.canyon.com/en-us/mountai...-7.0/2427.html
The component spec on both these bikes would be roughly equivalent to a "base" Ultegra spec'd road bike, meaning Ultegra drivetrain mixed with lower level brakes and wheels.