Trek Pilot vs Specialized Allex or Roubaix

[Bad JuJu]

I don't know anything about Specialized, but I've been eyeing a few Trek models myself. I just want to say that the 2007s seem to be getting scarce and apparently, judging by their website, Trek's changed their line-up for 2008, so I'd say that if you found a 2007 Trek you want, grab that puppy!

[VeloVT]

Does the Roubaix come in an entry level package? I remember when helping my boyfriend test bikes last year he looked at a Roubaix that I think was in the $5k range. I never test rode the Roubaix myself, but I recall that he wasn't wild about it. I don't remember why exactly, and I think it was a vague personal preference type thing, like, the ride just didn't wow him, not that there was something specific that he hated. (It also ended up being more than he wanted to spend at the time). He was looking for a somewhat relaxed setup too, though.

I would definitely look at Treks, I think they're a really good value. The Madone 5.2 bf eventually ended up with, at $3,000 (he actually paid $2700 b/c Trek was having a special), was equally spec'd to some bikes that were $1000-$1500 more. The Carbon is quite nice-feeling too -- we rode some comparably-priced carbon bikes that were "dead" feeling. I would imagine this value can be found throughout the line...

[Livin the Dream]

I've had my Trek Pilot 1.0 for about 5 weeks, and for me it is an extremely comfortable riding position. I haven't found anything (except the saddle) that I don't like about this bike. There are no Specialized dealers close by, so I can't comment on how the Pilot compares to those bikes.

[Kano]

I looked at and rode the Allez -- it was nice! I ended up purchasing a Roubaix, because I really wanted a triple up front, and when we went to find the Allez with a triple (which I could have been happy with, despite not being thrilled with the paint job!), we discovered a Roubaix that happened to be the same size as the Allez they put me on, on deep clearance. The difference in components, carbon frame AND the price being exactly the same as the Allez -- well, I was all over that bike!

Everyone says ride lots of bikes before choosing. I didn't. I rode a Dolce, decided that it was too crowded for me, rode the Allez and liked the feel of it LOTS more, and then I did not ride the Roubaix before purchasing it. I just said, put that in my car, I'm taking it home! Aside from changing the saddle and making some handlebar adjustments, my bike and I get along VERY well!
(changing to armadillo tires doesn't count -- though it's done lots for my confidence. I don't feel like I have to watch out for every grain of sand on the road, which could be hiding something with puncture power!)

That said, I was probably lucky.

Karen in Boise

[Mr. Bloom]

SilverSon has a 50 cm Trek Pilot 1.0. I used to ride it and found it very comfortable.

It's important to note that I have a wicked bad back, but found the upright geometry very comfortable for me.

HOWEVER, I planned on buying one for myself and was talked into an alternative geometry by the LBS...they were absolutely right and I'm much happier with my 49cm Lemond Reno.

So, my advice is don't go with a preconceived notion and let the LBS advise you.

[sandra]

Good advice Mr. Silver. BTW, how tall are you?

[Mr. Bloom]

Just under 5'7" BUT, my problem (besides being short) is that I've got a long torso and short legs...

The geometry of the Lemond supports my torso/leg ratio best.

In addition, I'm finding that the less upright posture is much more comfortable than I would have imagined.