"Jean" wrote in message ...
I'm looking to replace my old road bike with a carbon fiber model. My
criteria a women's specific design, comfy for all day riding, smooth
riding, light weight, Shimano 105 components, and preferably a triple crank.

Via the web, I've checked out the specs and reviews for following bikes:
Cannondale (Synapse Fem 5), Felt (ZW5), Giant (Avail Advanced 2), Trek
(Madrone 3.1WSD), or Specialized (Ruby Elite Apex). I was hoping y'all might
have some insights into these bikes so that I could minimize driving all
over the state (there are no local dealers for most of these brands) to do
the final fit check-out and test ride.

So here goes. Assuming equally good fit and tire size/psi - Do any of these
bikes stand out as more smooth riding? Do any of these bikes stand out as
more comfy for all day long cruising? Does anyone have any idea how the
weights compare for the same size bike?

Thanks for any help trying to trim down my list of potential bikes.

I'm probably a bit prejudiced, having purchased a Specialized Tarmac recently.
I've been happy with mine. I think that the Ruby is similar to the Tarmac or the Roubaix.

The geometry makes it a bit less butt over elbows as you use the hoods more.
With the 105 brake/shifters it's pretty nice. I find it very comfortable on rides ~100k
or so.

I test drove models from both Trek and Giant and wasn't very comfortable on
either. I had been riding a Bianchi Volpe (sport tour) for years. The Tarmac
surprised me.

Just my opinions. Comfort is very subjective, but I'm sure that you'll test ride these before deciding. Good luck.