Specialized Ruby / Roubaix

[Hi Ho Silver]

I'm looking at getting either a Specialized Ruby Elite Apex (size 51) or a Specialized Roubaix Elite SL2 Apex (size 49). Based on the online data, the geometry (angles, lengths, heights) is nearly identical. The two bikes seem to only differ in
- color (I much prefer the Roubaix black-white-gold model),
- saddle (I don't care since I recently spent $120 on a new Selle Italia Diva),
- head tube length (Ruby has a 15mm longer head tube, so ~15 mm higher bar height), and
- handlebar (Roubaix has 20mm wider bar, but I own 2 narrower bars that I could use instead).

Anyone have any experience either of these bikes? If so, how does the ride compare with other carbon framed bikes? Any comments about Ruby versus Roubaix?


Thanks,

Jean



Links:
Ruby
http://www.specialized.com/us/en/bc/SBCProduct.jsp?spid=52881&scid=1001&scname=Road

Roubaix
http://www.specialized.com/us/en/bc/SBCProduct.jsp?spid=52874&scid=1001&scname=Road

[indysteel]

I'm not familiar with the bikes themselves, but I did note that both bikes have a pretty steep STA at 75.5 degrees. For some, that wouldn't be an issue. For others, especially those with proportionally long femurs, it could pose a problem in terms of setting the saddle aft enough for a good knee position. If that could be an issue for you, I would make sure to address that with your LBS and/or fitter before getting the bike. I have proportionally long femurs myself and like to be behind the bottom bracket a bit too. I can get by with a STA of 74.5, but only if I use a seatpost with at least 25 mm of setback.

[Cyclesome]

I have a Specialized Ruby Pro 2007 and absolutely love her. It is my understanding that the Roubaix is unisex and the Ruby is the female version. I love the smooth ride and the relaxed geometry of my Ruby. You will love either bike. My husband has the Roubaix expert and enjoys it as well. I have a 51 and am 5' 5".

[Hi Ho Silver]

I'm not familiar with the bikes themselves, but I did note that both bikes have a pretty steep STA at 75.5 degrees. For some, that wouldn't be an issue. For others, especially those with proportionally long femurs, it could pose a problem in terms of setting the saddle aft enough for a good knee position. If that could be an issue for you, I would make sure to address that with your LBS and/or fitter before getting the bike. I have proportionally long femurs myself and like to be behind the bottom bracket a bit too. I can get by with a STA of 74.5, but only if I use a seatpost with at least 25 mm of setback.

I actually need such a steep seat tube angle. I have a bad knee and have to have a very forward "knee versus pedal" position.

[indysteel]

I actually need such a steep seat tube angle. I have a bad knee and have to have a very forward "knee versus pedal" position.

Cool! Sounds like a great choice for you then!

[rubysoho]

Can't comment on the unisex bike but I absolutely adore my Ruby Elite. Every ride gets better and better. I tried a new trail last Friday and found myself having to go off road through fields to get to where I wanted to go (I didn't plan very well.... actually, I didn't plan the ride at all!). Ended up tackling some interesting, non traditional challenges and nasty trails that I wouldn't expect a road bike to do well on. Finished the ride in the rain and Ruby handled very nicely traveling about 17mph on the road. Like I said, every ride gets better and better. :D

[Seajay]

Pretty sure Specialized uses a different carbon layup on the Ruby...expecting the average rider to be a bit lighter than that of the Roubaix. Theory would make sense, I suppose, to keep ride quality the same for a lighter rider...the frame would have different characteristics.

[tprevost]

I have a Roubaix that I love... I've had it for several years now and it's comfortable and I would buy the same bike again... It's been my 'go to' bike :D

[Hi Ho Silver]

Pretty sure Specialized uses a different carbon layup on the Ruby...expecting the average rider to be a bit lighter than that of the Roubaix. Theory would make sense, I suppose, to keep ride quality the same for a lighter rider...the frame would have different characteristics.

Interesting! It would make sense to use different layup on different frames. Is the determining factor frame size or "probable user weight"? (The sizes of the two bike frames I'm looking at are nearly identical.)

[gnat23]

I don't think it's *just* weight of the rider, but probably also the average power that goes towards the "twisting" of the back of the frame. I'd imagine Paulo Bettini, who is short but one of the best sprinters there was (*swoon*), would need something wickedly stiff and overbuilt despite his light bodyweight. Guys, on average, can put out more power and could use the stiffer/heavier layup, but then they can be jealous that we get the lighter frames.

Just saw this today, too, which is not directly related, but brings up some of the proportional geometry that Specialized aims for:
http://www.thebirdwheel.com/specialized-womens-bikes

I'd say try both bikes, if possible, and get out of the saddle and sprint like hell in a big bad gear. If you find the back too "wobbly", then you may need the Roubaix and assume that you may need shims/stem/saddle adjustments. Or if you don't plan on sprinting much in your rides and you find the women's geometry more comfortable (I sure do), go Ruby. Frames nonwithstanding, I find that it's even the details like the narrow handlebars and closer brake levers that make me happy.

-- gnat! (on my second Ruby, big fan)

[Jo-n-NY]

I also have an 2007 Ruby and love it. My dh has the Roubaix and is very happy with his.

I sprint on my Ruby and do not feel a bit of wobbliness. I love the way it handles & feels in every aspect.

As has been said, it is best to try them both and see what feels best for you.

~ JoAnn

[Hi Ho Silver]

I also have an 2007 Ruby and love it. My dh has the Roubaix and is very happy with his.

I sprint on my Ruby and do not feel a bit of wobbliness. I love the way it handles & feels in every aspect.

As has been said, it is best to try them both and see what feels best for you.

~ JoAnn

Unfortunately, there is more at stake than just "feel" ...I especially don't like the Ruby color scheme, and I really do like the Roubaix color scheme. So all other things being roughly equal, I'll go with the Roubaix.

Thanks to all who have responded to my questions! I feel more confident about my getting a Ruby or Roubaix now.