Once you have been exposed to the joys of off-road cycling, nothing can keep you from it. So, which one between the Cannondale or Specialized bike models would you pick on?
Since I rode a Specialized Rockhopper, I have been singing about the brand to anyone around me. Now, that it’s almost a year since, I need to diversify my collection.
I wanted a road bike and I was already decided on the brand Specialized. Their road race bike puts me in a hopeful mind frame.
It also puts them in an aggressive riding position that offers quick handling and lightweight properties that are perfect for climbing and comfortable responsiveness.
However, at my point of sale, I was drawn to the Synapse road bike by Cannondale. I had to find out what made them stand out.
What is the difference between Cannondale Synapse and Specialized Roubaix?
Model |
Cannondale Synapse |
Specialized Roubaix |
Stem |
Cannondale 3 6061 alloy |
Specialized Future Stem Pro |
Brakes |
Shimano Ultegra hydro disc |
Shimano Ultegra Disc |
Saddle |
Fabric Scoop Shallow Sport |
Body Geometry power |
Crankset |
Cannondale 1, BB30 |
Shimano Ultegra R8000 |
Shifters |
Shimano Ultegra hydro disc |
Shimano Ultegra Di2 R8070 |
Tires |
Vittoria Rubino Pro Bright |
Specialized Turbo Pro 28mm |
Seatpost |
Cannondale 3 |
Specialized S-Works Pave |
Fork |
BallisTec Carbon |
Full carbon with Future Shock |
Frame |
BallisTec Carbon |
FACT 10R carbon |
Wheels |
Fulcrum Racing 600DB |
Roval C 38 Disc carbon tubeless ready |
Availability |
Cannondale Synapse vs Specialized Roubaix: How do they compare?
Geometry
Specialized Roubaix frame creates a strong and stiff bike much heavier and better than the Cannondale bikes that are made of BallisTec carbon.
This material is both lightweight and strong enough to attain high speeds and aerodynamic effects.
A headtube measuring 143mm is made into large dimensions to create a stiff and strong junction for top and down tubes on the Roubaix.
This is an advanced carbon frame with a complicated mix of tubing options that are dependent on the job it is designed to do.
You get the SAVE PLUS technology which provides comfort using the vertical compliance created without resulting in extreme stiffness that hinders efficiency and speed.
This frame is also done in this way to allow for internal cabling that enters through the stem. Striking a middle ground between a road bike and the gravel bike, the Roubaix has a balanced setup.
The head angle rests at 73 degrees to maintain the bike’s racing speed and work well with the longer wheelbase and lengthy chainstay.
You will find that without excessive use of force, you can achieve high speeds, aerodynamic performances, and smooth rides around corners.
Features
Specialized Roubaix has 32mm tires which are better in traction and resilience than the Cannondale’s fitted Vittoria Rubino Pro tires.
Cannondale rides on 30mm Vittoria Rubino tires and unlike Roubaix’s, they are not tubeless so riding with a caution against potholes is prudent.
They have a Fabric Scoop saddle that is long for more room but you may need to move it more to the rear and lower the seat post to position it just above the pedals.
Because the bikes are based on the BB30 bottom bracket, they use the 50/34 tooth crankset and an 11-34t cassette.
On either side of the stem, the clamp is the handlebars that are designed to reduce vibration and add to the comfort of D-shaped and many might find they need to replace it after a while they just can’t get used to it.
Controlling both the Specialized Roubaix and the Cannondale is done efficiently by the use of the Shimano Dura-Ace hydraulic brakes which are reliable in all weather conditions.
The Ride
The Specialized Roubaix runs smoothly downhill which is good enough but you can get further with Cannondale which is reliable in maneuvering corners and getting through tight spots.
The head angle’s degree makes the Roubaix bike nimble and helps the steering inputs which when combined with the long wheelbase, adds to the balance and speed of response to the bike.
With the Cannondale, the bike is designed to be an all-time comfortable peddling option and uses the Ultegra components at the front and rear ends.
It is super responsive around corners and getting through tight bends is a breeze with the capacity to take sharp turns. It is capable of riding over cobbles and rough roads giving a very quiet and smooth riding experience.
Cannondale Synapse vs Specialized Roubaix: A Comparison Overview
Cannondale Synapse Review
[amazon box=”B00YHXRUMC” template=”horizontal” ]Their sleek and elegant designs make these bikes stand out from the rest. Whether for males or females, they have everything for everyone, and after just one ride, it will be impossible to consider other options.
These bikes are recognized internationally through cyclists who have won world Tour competitions such as the Tour de France on them.
The lightweight build and geometry are designed to enhance your riding potential by being super responsive and powerfully accurate in quick turns.
Cannondale road bikes are considerably shorter in height when put up against other road bikes which means they are ideal for the average-sized individual and not so much a great alternative for the taller people.
Pros
- Lightweight and strong carbon build
- Big range of and quick shifting between speeds
- Prioritizes comfort and excellent performance for long races
Cons
- Limited to average-sized cyclists
Specialized Roubaix Review
The Roubaix has long been the icon of endurance road bikes and its latest models feature the Future Shock 2.0 front suspension.
While it will cost you to start and continue maintenance, it is only necessary every 2 years. Sounds fairly manageable.
It caters to both women and men and the cockpit, seat stays, forks, and Seatpost have been optimized to create more stiffness in the rear end.
Specialized Roubaix provides a future shock front suspension that guarantees rider’s comfort and an adjustable 20mm of travel.
The springs on the Shock are not interchangeable and this makes the bike less than ideal for the different weights.
This bike’s Seatpost is D-shaped to reduce vibrations and increase aerodynamic capabilities that breeze over cobblestones.
The Specialized collection has everything ranging from aero road bikes to mountain bikes with full-suspension.
Pros
- Compact bike
- Quality parts
- Comfort
Cons
- Tires limited in winter
Conclusion
Cannondale Synapse is super responsive around corners and getting through tight bends is a breeze with the capacity to take sharp turns. It is capable of riding over cobbles and rough roads giving a very quiet and smooth riding experience.
Specialized Roubaix tubeless wheels are both reliable and perform effectively. Tires on the bike are what enable them to roll fast and offer good traction in corners and descents.
Verdict: So, which is better – Cannondale Synapse or Specialized Roubaix?
Specialized Roubaix is better than the Cannondale Synapse. This is proven by the tubeless tires, formidable frame and the standard of comfort it provides.
FAQ
What is the range possible on a Cannondale bike?
This relies heavily on the terrain you are riding over and your style of riding. While on Eco Mode, you may reach 50-60 miles, and while on Turbo, the range may go up to 30 miles. By switching up the modes during your ride, you can maximize your bike’s range.
Why the D-Fuse Seatpost on the Roubaix?
It was designed in 2014 with comfort in mind. It enables the saddle and more recently, the handlebars as well to flex in a certain direction. This flexing provides up to 12mm of movement at drops that in turn helps to smooth out most road imperfections.