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    Specialized Roll 2.0 vs 3.0: which is best?

    Tom Owen
    Tom Owen
    Oct 30, 2024 6 min
    Specialized Roll 2.0 vs 3.0: which is best?

    As a reputable bike brand, Specialized is known for its high quality builds. The Specialized Roll is included in that category. It sits somewhere between mountain bike and city bike: ideal for cruising to the shops or beach, yet capable of exploring hidden byways and gravel paths. The beauty of a bike like the Specialized Roll lies in the freedom it offers. What’s over that hill? What’s down that bridleway? The Roll is designed to satisfy these kinds of curiosities. And more!

    The Roll comes in three model variants:

    1. Specialized Roll 2.0
    2. Specialized Roll 3.0
    3. Specialized Roll Low-Entry

    We’ll dive into the differences between them all shortly, so if you’re looking for versatility, comfort and fun, then read on.

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    Specialized Roll: the key benefits

    • Lightweight yet sturdy aluminum frame complete with rack and mudguard mounts for hauling all your equipment or groceries no matter what the weather’s doing.
    • Comfortable upright riding position for long and short distances alike.
    • Wide tires for traction, stability and comfort year round and across any terrain.
    • Disc brakes to safely bring you to a halt whether you’re battling the rain or gliding along sun drenched lanes.

    What’s the difference between the Specialized Roll 2.0 vs 3.0?

    When comparing any bike models, the differences tend to be in the moving parts such as groupset, suspension and wheels.

    Though the frame color options change every year, both the Specialized Roll 2.0 and 3.0 feature reflective paint to help you be seen among traffic - not a bad idea!

    With just a couple of hundred dollars (RRP) separating both models, check the comparison table below to see the specs at a glance.

    Specialized Roll 2.0 and 3.0 compared

    We put all the essential comparison points into this handy table, so you can tell the difference between the Specialized Roll 2.0 vs 3.0 in an instant.


    Specialized Roll 2.0

    Specialized Roll 3.0

    Frame

    Aluminum

    Aluminum

    Fork

    Steel

    Steel

    Wheels

    Aluminum

    Aluminum

    Wheel size

    650b

    650b

    Brakes

    Mechanical disc

    Hydraulic disc

    Groupset

    microSHIFT Mezzo, microSHIFT M26

    microSHIFT Advent

    Drivetrain

    1x7

    1x8

    Seatpost

    Rigid

    Dropper post

    Specialized Roll 2.0 features up close

    The Specialized Roll 2.0 is a beginner-friendly mountain bike perfect for those looking to get on two wheels. The Roll 2.0 comes with mechanical disc brakes and seven gears to help you on your way no matter the gradient. This bike is incredibly easy to maintain thanks to its 1x drivetrain, rigid seat post and mechanical brakes.

    Overall, the Roll 2.0 is a good quality build at an affordable price.

    Specialized Roll 3.0 features up close

    The Roll 3.0 has a couple of nice-to-have extras designed to enhance your ride. Hydraulic disc brakes offer greater stopping power in all weathers. The microSHIFT Advent groupset offers smoother shifting as you work your way through the eight gears. The cherry on top is the dropper seatpost which helps with more technical descents and is a useful feature if you’re sharing the bike with other family members.

    The addition of these valuable extras make the Roll 3.0 a no-brainer if you can stretch your budget.

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    How do I know which Specialized Roll is best for me?

    We can’t blame you for choosing the Specialized Roll. It really is a solid bike designed to be taken on adventures near and far.

    The first decision you need to make is your budget: how much do you want to spend? Does your budget stretch to the extra features (dropper post, one extra gear and upgraded groupset) of the Roll 3.0 and do you see the value in them?

    Think about how often you plan to ride this bike. More frequent riders will benefit from an upgraded groupset due to higher quality materials and a wider range of gears. If you only plan to take the bike out on a couple of trips a year, the Specialized 2.0 will be everything you need and more.

    Finally, check if the bike is available in your size. The Specialized Roll 2.0 and 3.0 are available in sizes that suit riders between 5’1” and 6’4”, while the Roll Low-Entry doesn’t cater for the tallest among us. Check the manufacturer’s size guide for advice.

    What about the Specialized Roll Low-Entry?

    Specialized designed the low-entry version of the Roll to add more comfort and convenience. The spec is very similar to that of the Roll 2.0 (step over) with the major difference lying in the frame shape.

    If you’re looking for a bike to cruise around on without needing to swing your leg over a higher top tube, the low-entry model might be just the ticket. Bear in mind that this model is only available in sizes to suit riders with a height of 5’1” to 6’0”, so taller riders may struggle to find a low-entry bike that fits properly. Find out more about bicycle frame sizes in our guide.

    Ready to Roll?

    This bike does exactly what it says on the tin and we can’t wait for you to experience it.

    This bike ticks so many boxes, yet it’s hard to find anywhere that has the bike in stock, especially in the UK. So, where can you get your hands on the Specialized Roll 2.0 or 3.0?

    Get bang for buck at buycycle

    By shopping at buycycle, you know you’re going to get the best value for money. We sell quality second-hand bikes at the best prices, so you can be rest assured you’re getting the best deal.

    You can get your Specialized Roll 2.0 or 3.0 safe in the knowledge that if it’s not right when it arrives at your door, you can send it back for a full refund. Win, win!

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