Chaossupreme

Please don't kill me if this has been discussed before...several times as I bet it has. I did perform a quick search and couldn't find a topic on this comparison though (a bunch on each bike individually). I'm in the market to buy a Domane SLR 7 (DA or UDI2) or an Sworks Rouabix (with same drivetrain). I've historically been a fan of the Domane as I was unimpressed with the Specialized's paint schemes and technology (the cobl gobl-r thing, future shock 1.0 and 1.5 problems, etc) on the Roubaix for years, while the Domane was kicking butt with everything over the last 5 years. However, he update for the 2020 version with Futureshock 2.0 seems to fix all my concerns with the Roubaix and I was leaning toward it, then the 2020 Domane dropped and I'm like...what a dilemma. I'm now leaning toward the Domane again, but the extra weight the 2020 version has is a little disappointing. But I did see others saying you can't really tell or you can get some lighter wheels. But looking to get some thoughts from others who have one of the other / tried both of them, etc. Thank you for anything you can provide.

swag72

I have a 2020 SLR7...... I changed the Aelous xxx3 wheels for the Aelous xxx4 as I didn't want 32's. The Aelous xxx4 from what I read are considered very good wheels. Previously I rode a Roubaix, but it was from 2017 so had the first generation Future Shock. As a direct comparison between these bikes I felt that they were different. I instantly felt the rigidity of the Domane compared to the Roubaix. It seemed much more sure footed. This was confirmed on downhills where the Roubaix used to shake, rattle and roll over a particularly rough patch that I cycle, whereas instantly the Domane was a huge surprise. Faster and just felt safer. Hill climbing I don't really notice a difference between the bikes (except the difference between 105 and Di2 Ultegra)

Comfort wise the Domane has the edge for sure. On a bad surface there is much less vibration through the handlebars (On the Roubaix I couldn't read my Garmin as it was shaking around so much) which makes for a much more comfortable ride. The rear ISO works well and I feel that this really helps with overall comfort.

Sadly I can't help with your comparison dilemma as the Roubaix I had was not the current model. Everything I read about the Domane (trust me I did a lot of reading as there was no test bike available for me to try) led me to believe that I would enjoy it and it would suit my needs. I like to do rides of 3-4 hours in the saddle and I am comfortable through out this time.

dvdslw

Just throwing this in there because I was in a similar position looking at the Domane and Roubaix. I opted to buy the 2019 Domane SLR frameset directly from Trek that's on sale right now 50% off to build with my choice of components and wheels. I saw lots of positive reviews of that generation Domane and from what I gathered comes in almost two pounds lighter in the slr form to the comparable 2020 model. After adding it all up, I'll end up building this bike for less than half of what the Domane slr9 retailed for complete although I'm doing Udi2 instead of DA. Just a thought.

one4smoke

I've read of issues with the 1.0, but what kind of problems are going on with the 1.5?

blakcloud

When I decided to buy a new road bike I test drove the Roubaix because that was the bike I wanted on paper. It seemed to have everything I wanted in a road bike. When I rode it I didn't like it, it was uncomfortable. The components were great, the wheels were good enough, there was just something about the frame I didn't like. I then tried the Domane and I loved the ride but wanted to make sure that this was the bike. So I test rode a Cannondale Supersix and a Giant Defy Advanced Pro. Both of these were good bikes but not great. Back to the Domane and it was a no-brainer. The bike fits my style more than the other bikes did.

Do I think everyone should buy a Domane? No not at all. It is just a bike that seemed to fit me well and is the most comfortable bike I have ever ridden. It could be a combination of ISO Speed, frame geometry, frame material. I think when you hit that price range of bike, EVERY bike is good, it only comes down to personal preference.

I am one of the ones that complained about the weight. For a carbon bike, it is a little much but you will have to decide what is too heavy.

Either bike will serve you well and maybe it will come down to colour as the deciding factor. Good luck with what ever you decide.

dvdslw

I had the exact same experience between those two bikes. The Roubaix seems like the best choice when you research it behind a keyboard but riding both back to back tells a different story.

N00b_Cyclist

Yea, I was also researching both of these for my next bike. Well, The Roubaix and the Domane that is. I ended up with the 2020 Domane SLR7 UDi2 and haven't looked back. Love this bike. It's comfortable, fun, feels fast to me, and I have no issues climbing with it. It also turns heads with the Project One ICON paint scheme.

jnbrown

Have you considered Cannondale Synapse?
When my wife was looking for a new bike we went to test ride the Domane, but they also had a good deal on the Synapse and she liked the ride a lot more and she loves the bike.

BengalCat

In its specific category and separately when considered as an all-around road bike Domane rules. Trek's warranty beats all.

bpcyclist

I have owned several bikes and my favorite of all-time still is an Orca that got stolen. If you get a chance to ride an Orbea, I would do it. You might be surprised.