Endurace CF SLX 7 Di2 vs Aeroad CF SLX 7 Di2 — aero dream vs comfort/back issues (Bay Area)

Hey guys — I’m torn and would love some real-world takes from people who’ve ridden / owned these.

I’m debating between:

Option A: Endurace CF SLX 7 Di2 (sale, ~$4,299)

Link: https://www.canyon.com/en-us/road-bikes/endurance-bikes/endurace/cf-slx/endurace-cf-slx-7-di2/4276.html?dwvar\_4276\_pv\_rahmenfarbe=R077\_P11&dwvar\_4276\_pv\_rahmengroesse=XS&utm\_campaign=&utm\_id=&utm\_adgroup=&utm\_adgroupid=&utm\_keyword=&utm\_matchtype=&utm\_size=&gad\_source=1&gad\_campaignid=23429057681&gbraid=0AAAAADpzu2C4DgRjKfTfQO2J1Y1l20\_OS&gclid=Cj0KCQiAprLLBhCMARIsAEDhdPe1Txhd\_krw3gRplk3iwNrl-IMZ02sIkWD0nkjQw-0DVy2af5UK6OcaAtxLEALw\_wcB&utm\_device=c&utm\_medium=cpc&utm\_source=google

• Groupset: Shimano 105 Di2

• Wheels: DT Swiss ERC 1600 Dicut (carbon, 35mm deep)

• Tires (stock): Schwalbe Pro One Evo 32mm

• Tire clearance: 35mm

• Claimed weight: 18.04 lbs (size M listed)

Option B: Aeroad CF SLX 7 Di2 (~$5,099)

Link: https://www.canyon.com/en-us/road-bikes/aero-bikes/aeroad/cf-slx/aeroad-cf-slx-7-di2/4034.html?dwvar\_4034\_pv\_rahmenfarbe=R107\_P01

• Groupset: Shimano 105 Di2

• Wheels: DT Swiss ARC 1600 (carbon, 55mm deep)

• Tires (stock): Continental GP5000 S TR 28mm + Continental Aero 111 26mm (front)

• Tire clearance: 32mm

• Claimed weight: 17.29 lbs (size M listed)

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My dilemma

I always dreamed of owning a proper aero bike. The Aeroad just looks insane to me, aero frame and deep section wheels— and I notice that a huge chunk of posts here are aero bikes, which makes me feel like that’s “the one.”

But… I keep hearing aero bikes are less comfortable. What does that actually mean in practice?

• Is it mainly the more aggressive position (stack/reach, lower front end) causing neck/back strain?

• Is the ride itself harsher because of stiffer frame/aero cockpit/deeper wheels, or is it mostly position?

• How big of a difference does it feel like after \~2–3 hours?

Important constraint: back issues

I have scoliosis + a herniated disc. On long rides I can get stiff/pain sometimes. I used to ride an endurance Cannondale, so I’m a little nervous about going full aero if it’s going to flare me up.

How I ride

• Bay Area rider

• Typical rides: \~60km

• Sometimes I’d like to do 120–150km days

• I also like the idea of some light gravel / rougher roads (Marin / Peninsula etc.)

Gravel question

With the Endurace’s 35mm clearance (and stock 32s), could I realistically throw on something like 35mm all-road tires and do some mellow gravel? Or is that wishful thinking and I should just get a real gravel bike later?

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What I’d love feedback on

1.  If you’ve owned both: Endurace vs Aeroad comfort difference (especially after 2–4 hours)

2.  How much “fit” can compensate on the Aeroad for comfort (spacers, cockpit adjust, etc.)

3.  Whether the Aeroad is a bad idea with back issues even with a good bike fit

4.  For Bay Area riding specifically: would you pick Endurace for the versatility, or Aeroad for the vibes/speed?

1. Is it worth the cool appearance for the potential disadvantages?

Appreciate any opinions (and brutal honesty). I’m trying not to buy the “cool bike” and regret it 3 months later 😅