Boardman road bike anyone?

a friend test rode one and even the Small was 'long' in the horizontal frame length. Very stretched out and 'rectangular' frame. It may have absorbed bumps 'ok' but it is more 'race' than say the Specialized Roubaix (built for a day of riding) or even Allez. His back said 'no'.

The carbon isn't the best (as Ufrasia said) but it's 'OK'. the bits they put on are good.
The value for money is good - but the frame may not suit you if you're used to more 'square' frames and if it doesn't fit.... you'll not be comfortable no matter how good it is value wise.

Thanks... that what I feared. A lot of people seem to mention the Specialized Roubaix and Tarmac for comfort, but I know I'll end up paying full whack for these so I was looking for more of a smart buy. Halfords didn't seem particularly interested in setting up a test ride for the Boardman - hence the question.