First Carbon Bike

I’m probably pulling the trigger on one of two bikes this next week. I am a novice rider just getting into group rides and wants a bike that can handle longer rides that is still light and fast. My current bike is a 2014 Specialized Tri-Cross that I’ve tuned up after years of neglect. I’ve been riding our local trail system in South Texas for about six months. I would say my fitness is moderate overall but I’m still gaining on the road. I have done a few group rides and can hang with a moderate group at about 18mph for 20ish miles. I’m preparing to ride a 62 mile race in late June. I’m mid-30s, about 5’8” and 210 freedom units, but trending down the more I ride.

Bike 1 is this exact Roubaix I test rode about 6 weeks ago and fell in love with. It was so comfortable, light and fast. I called my LBS and they offered a discount to $3,699 which would put it at just over $4,000 out the door. This is at the tippy top of my budget but I can make it work. I really like the 105 di2 and the bike felt like a perfect fit at 54cm compared to the 54 Tri-Cross I have.

Bike 2 is a Cannondale Synapse 2 LE Carbon off FB marketplace. The guy says it’s barely used at all and for $2500 seems like a great deal for what is normally a $3000 price online, especially for still having 105 di2. It has SmartSense which I find interesting but have seen mixed reviews. I will update after the test ride but I find the Cannondale more appealing because it’s about $1500 cheaper. I’ve heard it’s an awesome bike agnostic of the SmartSense.

TIA!