Specialized updates Roubaix to balance stiffness and comfort

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Oversized everything keeps the bottom(Image credit: Specialized)

Tech feature: Specialized 2009 road introduction, July 30, 2008

The 2009 Roubaix SL2 is a completely new frame, though it effectively melds the lower half of the current Tarmac SL2 with the upper section of the '09 Roubaix SL. The seat stays are more widely spaced and radically manipulated, the down tube and chain stays are vastly bigger in diameter than before, and the newly tapered front end has sprouted a 1 3/8in bearing lower bearing that Specialized claims offers a better balance of ultimate stiffness and comfort than the Tarmac SL2's 1 1/2in version.

Bigger and burlier all round the S-Works Roubaix SL2 really should tempt those back who felt the 2008 version was just a bit too safe and comfy. According to Specialized, the new rear triangle increases lateral rigidity by 21 percent over the old Roubaix SL, the bottom bracket area is 12 percent stiffer and the front triangle beefs up by 9 percent. Even better, the '09 Roubaix SL2 is also 40g lighter than last year's version.

In the end, the new Roubaix SL2 provides much of the drivetrain and torsional stiffness of the dedicated race machine but Specialized claims it still has the same vertical compliance that has made the Roubaix popular with mile-eating riders. If you think this new shape bears striking resemblance to what Tom Boonen used to win this year's Paris-Roubaix, you're not imagining things; Tornado Tom used a custom prototype version that's remarkably similar to what you'll be able to buy yourself.

From the miles we put into the frame you certainly notice the difference over the softer 2008 Roubaix. There's far better steering precision and power transfer than before, the new frame has loads of life to it and it responds more readily to big power inputs. As promised, this new version is also just as comfortable as before; it's just that much of the mush of the old version has been washed away.

Thankfully, Specialized also hasn't messed with the existing Roubaix geometry whose taller head tube, longer wheelbase and slightly more relaxed angles won't scare you off the road. If 2009 will find you looking for a fast new steed but you're not particularly interested in quick race car-like handling (or if your back just isn't as flexible as it used to be), it looks like you could do far worse than to put the new Roubaix SL2 high on your list.

Like a car modded for speed, Specialized's Pro Road shoes have been lightened and lowered for 2009. The new carbon sole is thinner and stiffer than before (and supposedly even stiffer than the top-end S-Works model) and the new M-Lock SL buckle is now lighter and smaller. The new Micromatrix upper also has a tweaked shape for a better fit and the foam-filled heel has been replaced with a squish-free synthetic liner for better heel hold. Replaceable heel tread means the new model should last longer, too.