Originally Posted by
Recycled Cycler
I'd question the low bar position the OP is now using. Not really necessary for riding the OP is doing, someone just getting into cycling. You can ride fast and comfortably they're not mutually exclusive. For a non-racer, that extra comfort getting saddle and bars closer to same height can increase the miles you ride and thus get you fitter. You'll go faster and farther just because you're more comfortable.
A Roubaix has a relatively high stack for a given reach, so slamming the stem is not as extreme as on a more racy bike. And lower is not necessarily uncomfortable; the position just has to suit one's body and fitness level.
Originally Posted by
Kai Winters
A different bike won't make that much of a difference taking into consideration you state "I will ride 1-3 times a week, 20-60 miles". You won't get very fast.
OP is merely striving to be "as fast as possible" why remaining "reasonably comfortable," not necessarily becoming "very fast."