Roubaix SL8 Apex - The Review Specialized Doesn't Want You to See

I'm of the opinion that some of today's bikes are over engineered, over priced, and over marketed. I recently got the opportunity to ride one of these wonder bikes and see if my mind changed. At $4000 the Roubaix SL8 Sport falls in the middle of the range, with the top end S-Works version selling for almost 3 times as much. I was able to get some solid riding in and here's my review.

[ugomarsolais]

Nice review!

I have a Roubaix SL8 Sport 105, which is a notch down from your model since it doesn't have electronic shifting, but rather the Shimano 105, actually the newer one with the 12 speed cassette. It's nice although not sure it's such a big difference with 11 speed.

I love the Roubaix. First off, the Future Shock is fantastic. You don't notice its operation because it's subtle and smooth, but it does make riding on worn and cracked pavement less jarring and more comfortable. You didn't talk about it, but the Pave seatpost on Roubaix flexes too to absorb bumps.

The geometry is really comfortable. The S-Works Mondo tires are great. And I agree with you: although it's a road bike, it can do light gravel too. Throw in 35mms or higher and it does become a pretty good gravel bike.

[fwaatl]

Matt - this was an excellent review...you covered enough but your comments, and recordings were spot on.
I own the 2022 Roubaix Comp that has SRAM eTap electronic shifting. I purchased mine amid COVID-19 and went to Chicago (900 miles away) to purchase it. The Roubaix to me is the most comfortable road/endurance bike on the road. Outdoing the Domane (which I've also owned). Yes, with our "new" economy all bikes not just this bike will throw EVERYONE back financially. I bit the bullet and have not one regret. The future shock (adjustable) on my bike is a charm.
Thank you for this review.

[bullonabike]

When you have a 2x and can program specific presets for shifting it’s awesome

[hankd]

I love my Roubaix! It's not quite as fancy as that one, but is very capable and comfy on long rides.

[scottorsini]

I own this bike, same color same model. I’ve raced mtn bikes and cross. I also own a diverge. I love this bike. It’s my daily driver for training. I like the go anywhere attitude of the bike and frankly, I could do a cross race on it with the right tires. I run it tubeless with Wolftooth Bar Tape for a smooth ride

[brandonhoffman]

I just shoved some pirelli gravel h tires in 40mm on my roubaix. Rides nice!

[BauStrick]

Love this review! I just bought this viel for the reason of it being able to do anything :)

[Nicool]

Had a roubaix for many years. Great bike.
Upgraded to a titanium bike which definitely is a step above (for me) but the price premium is huge and may not be worth it from a utilitarian perspective.

[kirilblagoev]

Very helpful review. That is my bike. :) Thank you!

[Carbonfuchs]

Excellent review. I have ridden it and for me its not a Gravelbike and not a racy Roadbike. Instead of buying a Roubaix i would like to recommend buying a Diverge if diversity is the topic. With two sets of wheels it is as fast as the Roubaix. Greeting from Germany🙋‍♂️

[gabrielcarlothomas]

Good subjects for next SOIL Cycling Pod.

[jessa.]

How fast can one go on a Roubaix? I'm not talking Tarmac or Allez fast but faster than a hybrid bike I hope?!?