kh121

Two deals, two different shops:

2009 Roubaix Expert Compact: $2600
2010 Roubaix Expert Compact Test Bike: $2700 (The bike will be in within a few weeks)

Differences:

2009: Ultegra SL components and Ultegra SL Wheel sets
2010: Ultegra 6700 components and Roval Fusee EL Wheel sets. I heard the 2010 test bikes are red. (Can anyone confirm the color?)

Yes, the seats are different, but both shops said I am free to trade the seat to one of my liking at purchase.

The color is not a big deal to me, but does anyone have any input on purchasing a test bike? I would be the first to ride it, so other than saying "test bike" on it I have been told there are no differences.

Considering the price difference is not too significant ($100 as of now) and the slight difference in components, does anyone have an opinion?

Thanks

mr handy

I like the new ultegra looks better.
Which one has better wheels. I'm guessing the Ultegra wheels would be a bit better, but most likely not anything amazing... If they have the nipples in the hubs like the pic I just googled, I would once again go with the 2010, just because.

I like the shape of the new ultegra hoods as well, but I have little real experience with them... they look like they would suit my hands nicely.

Hope that helps.

cccorlew

Check the under-the-tape- shift cables. Like 'em? That's 2010. They also are supposed to be shaped differently.
New Ultegra uses a different chain that's supposed to shift better.
I'd go 2010, but that's just me. My wife has the 2009 women's version, the Ruby, and loves it.
Both have miracle called Zertz, so really, how wrong could you go?

kh121

Thanks for the input. Yeah, the under the tape cables have a much cleaner look. It seems people have a lot of good things to say about the 6700 Ultegra too.

This will be my first really nice road bike and the Roubix seems like a great bike... smooth yet fast. The 2009 rode quite nicely and the 2010 should be very similar.

Does anyone have any opinions on purchasing a new/never ridden "test bike".

Coinpurse

Just a note on the Roubaix. I have a 2009 Comp, all 105. It was my first real road bike also. I love the ride and shock reduction of the "Zert" inserts. I wish you many smooth miles.