Specialized designed the Roubaix to allow pro riders to survive spring classics like the famous Paris-Roubaix race, which includes sections of cobbled roads that make these spring races difficult, if not downright hellish. These granite block paved roads are numerous in northern France and Belgium, where Paris-Roubaix, the Tour of Flanders, and Gent-Wevelgem, to name a few, are held.

The Specialized Roubaix: a bike perfectly suited for Quebec.

Given its comfort-oriented geometry and technical characteristics adapted for use on bumpy roads, it can be said that the Specialized Roubaix is a bike very well suited to our roads. Bumps, cracks, potholes, gravel, unpaved sections, the Roubaix handles them more easily than a traditional road bike.

"Comfort" oriented features ideal for long rides

• Geometry: First, the frame's geometry is adapted for a more upright riding position than most other road bikes. To achieve this, the head tube is slightly longer. To add a touch of comfort, the wheelbase is also a few millimeters longer.
• Flexibility and rigidity: the 11r carbon frame is more flexible longitudinally while having as much horizontal rigidity as a standard carbon racing bike frame. The mastery of this technology makes it possible to manufacture a bicycle better suited for long rides on less-than-perfect roads.
• Value-added gadgets: the Zerts inserts integrated into the seatstays and fork, as well as the "Coble Goble-R" (cobblestone eater) seatpost, are certainly assets that help minimize the transmission of vibrations and road imperfections to the cyclist, adding to the comfort.

The Omega Pharma Quick Step cycling team

The OPQS cycling team is undoubtedly one of the best professional racing teams on the WorldTour circuit. Indeed, the team boasts a fine array of talented riders such as Tom Boonen (winner of four Paris-Roubaix races), sprinter Mark Cavendish, and time trial specialist Tony Martin, to name a few, who excel in their respective specialties. Not only do these riders contribute to making this team one of the most formidable on the pro circuit, but they also contribute to the development of the technology used for the production of consumer bicycles.

The Specialized Roubaix Omega Pharma Quick Step

This edition of the famous Specialized Roubaix is undoubtedly a success, both in terms of the bike's overall look and the performance it delivers to its rider. We are talking about a bike that weighs close to 14 lbs (without pedals). Its lightness and rigidity make it an extremely responsive machine that only asks to be pushed by its rider. In addition, the SRAM RED 10-speed groupset is one of the best in the industry. Mounted on full carbon ROVAL RAPID CLX40 wheels (1400g per pair) completes this package very well.

Whether you are a fan of long rides, Grand-Fondo type, or simply looking for a light and very high-performance bike, the Roubaix S-Works is an excellent choice. It will help you push your limits in comfort, but not at any price! Indeed, its retail price, hovering around $9000, does not allow everyone to afford it. However, with a bit of luck, it is possible to find high-end S-Works bikes at mid-range prices. It's up to you to discover them!