Cannondale Grind

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Patriot Blue Cannondale Optimo F2000 26 XC Hardtail Frame Headset
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US $82.01

Cannondale Scalpel Jacket XL Black Cycling Running Outdoor
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US $51.99

Cannondale Womens Rush Baggy Moutain Bike Short Large 9F284L BLK
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US $50.00

Cannondale Mens Womens Grind Series Sport Baggy Shorts Black 3XL 9M271XXX BL NWT
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US $49.99

NEW w Tag Cannondale Mens GRIND Co2 Jersey MSRP$5499
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US $39.99

NEW w Tag Cannondale Ws GRIND MTB Jersey MSRP $5499
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US $34.99

Cannondale Grind
Specialized Roubaix vs. Tarmac and Elite vs. Comp?

Getting into road biking and looking heavily at the Specialized bikes. I was recommended the Roubaix by the shop, but like the look of the Tarmac better. I heard the Tarmac was stiffer and more racey though, so not sure if it would be suitable for me. I plan to use it for commuting and distance rides, not as much for racing. My price point is about $1500 and I want something that I can continue to grow into, without having to do too many upgrades if I become more serious.

Second question is if you think the Comp is worth the price hike (~$2-300) over the Elite - they're both mainly Shimano 105 components with some subtle differences. Shimano 105's seem like the middle ground, which is probably more than good enough for me.

The only other one I've considered is the Cannondale Synapse Carbon 5.

btw, the models I'm referring to here are the 2008's.
Just to clarify, the Comp is $200 - $300 more than the Elite, not $2300. =)

Roubaix is still a race bike. Teams like Saxo Bank and Quick Step rides them in the Paris Roubaix which is a very popular race known for their old and bumpy roads with cobblestones. That is why Specialize named their bike after the Paris Roubaix. Roubaix (bike) specializes in bumpy road because of the more relaxer geometry and Zertz that are inserted into the fork and seatstays. They allow to absorb road vibration without eliminating performance.

The Tarmac and Roubaix almost the same geometry. The Tarmac is more likely to be more stiffer.

The Cannondale Synapse is similar to the Roubaix but the geometry is also different. The Synapse absorbs road conditions just as well.
The Synapse has a unique SAVE technology into their seatstays and chain stay. SAVE means, Synapse Active Vibration Elimination. What that does is it absorbs and slightly flexes in those areas for more comfort without sacrificing performance. They have a noticeable Triaxle Hourglass Seatstay that does the flexing. (It does not flex a whole lot and is not noticeable by the eye) When you get the bike stock, the handlebars will be noticeably higher. If you would like to bring it into a more aggressive ride, lower the head tube risers and flip the stem. By doing that, you will give you a lot more aggressive and faster ride.

Check this video out. IT pretty much tells you everything about the Synapse.

Between Comp and the Elite, Comp is always have the upgraded areas like the break calipers etc.
Same drivetrain, and same frame.
Elite should be fine, you can just upgrade parts if you are not satisfied.
As for the Comp that is $2,300 as a 2008 frame, it's over priced. I wouldn't get it because most 2008 bikes now are getting a lot cheaper.

All in all, if you live in an area where you have alot of pot holes and bad road conditions, the Roubaix and Synapse is ideal. (Like San Francisco)
If you are leaned over to the more competitive speed rider, you might want to get a Tarmac.

I own a 08 Cannondale Synapse Carbon 3 and I'll have to say, the SAVE technology is great and I do not feel any performance that is being sacrificed.

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