The Specialized Roubaix SL8 at the Paris-Roubaix Spring Classic: A Custom Build for the Toughest Cobblestones in the World
Paris-Roubaix isn’t just a race — it’s a legendary experience. With endless pavé sectors, dusty farm tracks, and tight corners, this challenge demands a bike that combines comfort, control, and reliability. I always intended to build the Specialized Roubaix SL8 Sport into a “speed-gravel bike,” and racing Paris-Roubaix was the perfect reason to upgrade it with high-performance components and some very specific modifications.
The Route: Paris-Roubaix – “Hell of the North”
The pro version of Paris-Roubaix stretches roughly 250 km from Compiègne to the Roubaix Velodrome. What makes it special: over 50 km of brutal cobblestone sectors (known as pavé), including legendary stretches like:
- Trouée d’Arenberg
- Carrefour de l’Arbre
- Mons-en-Pévèle
These conditions challenge even the most advanced race bikes. While a classic road bike is one option, I wanted to go further. Interestingly, many amateur riders tackle the event on mountain bikes — which I think is overkill for such a long and fast route.
Specialized Roubaix SL8 Custom Build
Roval C38 Wheels with DT Swiss 370 Hubs
The Roval C38 carbon wheelset offers a great balance of weight, aerodynamics, and strength — even if it isn’t strictly a gravel wheelset. With a 21 mm internal width, it supports wider tires, which is essential for grip and comfort on pavé. I swapped the standard 18T ratchet internals for a 36T version to improve engagement precision.
SRAM Rival AXS Group with Ratio Technology SR45X Cage
The Rival AXS group does offer an XPLR derailleur, but I opted for a more affordable standard derailleur and upgraded it with the Ratio Technology SR45X cage kit. The result: a full 1x setup that handles up to a 44T cassette — ideal for long rides, gravel, and steep pavé sectors.
Rotor Aldhu 24 mm Crankset with Shimano Bottom Bracket Compatibility
The Rotor Aldhu crankset with a 24 mm axle allows me to run a Shimano BSA bottom bracket — in my view, one of the best options for durability and value.
power2max NGeco Power Meter
This second-hand power2max NGeco spider delivers precise wattage data. Thanks to a firmware update via the power2max app, it’s fully up to date. It can measure dual-sided power (with software upgrade) — helpful for detailed analysis and balanced output.
FutureShock Suspension Converted to Rigid Setup
I replaced the Roubaix’s stock FutureShock suspension with a rigid aluminum insert. Benefits include:
- Weight savings
- Lower stack height → more aggressive riding position
- Sharper steering feel (especially vs. base FutureShock)
Specialized Pave Seatpost – Straight Version, 450 mm
The Roubaix’s AfterShock system places the seatpost clamp deep in the frame, requiring a long post for proper insertion. I use the straight version of the Pave post in 450 mm — it helps achieve an aggressive, centered riding position while offering compliance.
Tailfin Aeropack – Ready for Long-Distance
The Tailfin Aeropack is a lightweight, wobble-free gear solution. It mounts directly to the rear axle — ideal for bikepacking or endurance rides. No straps, no movement, no noise.
Zipp SL 80 Race Handlebar & Carbon Stem
I built the cockpit with a 38 cm wide Zipp SL 80 Race handlebar for a compact, aerodynamic fit — combined with a Zipp carbon stem for stiffness and weight savings.
Conclusion: An Endurance Road Bike with Gravel DNA — Built for Roubaix
My Roubaix SL8 build combines the best of both worlds: the stability and versatility of a gravel bike with the speed and efficiency of a road machine. Modularity, comfort, and control were key — and every component was chosen to strike the right balance of weight, ergonomics, and serviceability.
Speed Gravel Meets Endurance Comfort
The decision to build a speed-gravel bike was absolutely right. I love the durability of 40 mm tires on the Roval C38 wheels. Semi-slick gravel treads like the Hutchinson Cacheral offer just the right mix of grip and rolling efficiency on mixed terrain.
The Roubaix frame is extremely versatile — comfortable on rough roads, yet still fast enough for group rides. The built-in AfterShock system paired with the long, flexing Pave seatpost really shines — soaking up vibrations and protecting your back on long days.
The 1x SRAM Rival AXS setup with the SR45X cage is rock-solid — precise and silent, with no dropped chains or issues, even under rough and muddy conditions at Paris-Roubaix.
Bottom line: this setup blends the sharpness of a race bike with the confidence and comfort of a gravel bike — perfect for fast and versatile riders.