2003 Fuji Roubaix
 

I am planning on buying a road bike for the first time (My first one was given to me a Scott Team-Issue). I am actully most likely gonna go with the Fuji Roubaix, but I would like any input. I don't race. I do rides and tours (usually 60-100MI). However I am not at all into tour bikes. Thats why I feel this triple ring will do me well, yet the bike is still sporty. Anyone who has one or know about them... Please give feedback about it..

Another question is I am stuck on what size to get... According to my inseam i should go with the 58cm, I am 5'11", however I am only 14 and will prolly grow a couple inches, at the most 6". I was wondering should I just go with the 61cm or, does a couple inches make a diffrence? I don't want to have to buy a new bike in 2-3 years, espcially since this is a fairly expensive bike.

Thanks! Ryan

The Roubaix is a very nice bike. I almost bought one a couple months ago. You should find a Fuji dealer, and go try the bike out. It is difficult to buy a bike based on what size you might be in 6 months to a year. You could always buy a frame slightly large, and then adjust it back to your current size, but you dont want to buy too big. Given the number of adjustments that you will need as you grow,,, you should buy from a local dealer. Make sure they will help you with your questions and needs up front.

The first time I saw the Roubaix, I fell in love with it and almost bought on the spot. Had I been alone, I probably would have, but my wife was with me and reminded of my promise to wait until my birthday next May.

It is a value leader, I think it is all 105 components for only about $1200 bucks. This time of year, you should be able to get one on sale.

As to size, if the LBS won't fit you, find another shop.

Nice bike but i'd get the 03 pro.

I have an 03 Roubaix, and I am quite happy with it. It is light and responsive, and it is stable on speedy descents. As far as size goes, remember that the Roubaix has standard, as opposed to compact, geometry. The top tube length on the 61 centimeter frame is 590 mm. Add the stock stem of 110 mm, and you have a reach of 700 mm. I am about 6'2" and ride the 61 centimeter. I am still debating whether I need a slightly shorter stem.

I have noticed that the 04 Fuji Roubaix uses a heavier aluminum and carbon seat stays (which are appearing on many 04 Fujis). The 04s also have a slightly sloping geometry.

I'll echo advice from others: Go to a shop that carries Fuji bikes and try a couple sizes.

[QUOTE]Originally posted by Ryan
I am planning on buying a road bike for the first time (My first one was given to me a Scott Team-Issue). I am actully most likely gonna go with the Fuji Roubaix, but I would like any input. I don't race. I do rides and tours (usually 60-100MI). However I am not at all into tour bikes. Thats why I feel this triple ring will do me well, yet the bike is still sporty. Anyone who has one or know about them... Please give feedback about it..

Another question is I am stuck on what size to get... According to my inseam i should go with the 58cm, I am 5'11", however I am only 14 and will prolly grow a couple inches, at the most 6". I was wondering should I just go with the 61cm or, does a couple inches make a diffrence? I don't want to have to buy a new bike in 2-3 years, espcially since this is a fairly expensive bike. [/i]

Fujis are smaller than their nominal sizes would indicate, so you definitely need to try them on in person. In a road bike, don't worrry so munch about standover height -- any clearance at all is probably enough -- and focus on top tube length. If you make sure the reach to the bar is comfortable with a shortish stem (a 90mm, say), and that the seat post still has a couple of inches buried in the seat tube before hitting the minimum insertion line), then you can probably not worry if you grow a little be more. You can always get a longer stem and raise the saddle.

The Rubaix sounds like it will be a good bike for your needs, assuming it fits you properly. Make sure the shop goes over the wheels by hand, stress-relieving and bringing the spokes up to proper high tension. This will save you grief later.

RichC

Thanks alot guys! Your feedback was highly appreciated!