Why are triathlon bikes so aero?

A triathlon bike has a much larger seat tube angle (76 to 78 degrees) than that of a road bike (72 degrees for a typical road bike). The steeper angle of the the tri bike can create a much more “aero” position. Most people also tend to find road bikes more comfortable over longer distances.

Can you use an aero bike for triathlon?

The tests I conducted show an aero road bike provides aerodynamic performance similar to a pure triathlon bike, but still creates slightly more wind drag. If you are trying to squeeze out every advantage, an aero road bike is not an equal substitute for a triathlon-specific bike.

What’s special about triathlon bikes?

Tri bikes are designed to help you become streamlined by positioning your torso level with the ground. Manufacturers give tri bikes a steeper seat angle (angle between seat tube and an imaginary straight line where the top tube meets the seat tube) than a road bike.

What bike is best for triathlon?

The best triathlon bikes

1. Canyon Speedmax CF 8.0. A super light speedster coupled with a great groupset.
2. Ribble Ultra Tri Shimano 105. Pro-grade frame in its full carbon glory.
3. Cervelo 105 Disc. Affordable tt bike from an Ironman favourite brand.
4. Felt IA | Advanced, Rim Brake | 105 | 2020.
5. BMC Timemachine 02 Two 2020.

Why do triathlon bikes look so weird?

On a triathlon bike, the seat tube is steeper than a road bike. The angle of the seat tube on a triathlon bike forces the hips to sit forward which gives the rider less tension on their quadriceps and hamstrings.

Can I ride a triathlon bike on the road?

Registered. Tri/time trial bikes aren’t allowed In road races and are shunned by anyone with a clue in charity rides/ organized road ride.

Why are triathlon bikes so expensive?

However, why triathlon bikes seem more expensive is because there is no viable low-end market for triathlon bikes. The thing is, there is no such thing as a casual triathlete rider. If they are casual, they use a road bike. Road bikes are more versatile and comfortable.

What is the most expensive Trek bike?

The Butterfly Trek Madone currently holds the title of the most expensive bike sold in the world. The second most expensive bike ever sold was the Trek Yoshitomo Nara Speed Concept that was sold for $200,000.

Is a triathlon bike worth it?

Triathlon bikes are almost worthless outside of triathlon and time trialing. They’re not as safe, as comfortable, or as easy to handle as a road bike. In fact, you can still be pretty competitive on a road bike with some solid training and coaching.

Does a triathlon bike make a difference?

The most notable difference is the design, or geometry of the frame of each bike. Triathlon bikes have a steeper angle of the seat. The steeper angle allows the user to travel at a faster rate because you can bend your body down lower which reduces wind resistance.

What is the difference between an Ironman and a triathlon?

An Olympic distance Triathlon is 1500m swim, 40km bike then a 10km run. Half Ironman is 1800m swim, 90km bike then a 21.2 km run. Ironman is a 3.6km swim, 180km bike and then a 42.4km run. In miles this equals 2.4 mile swim, 112 miles on the bike then a 26.2 mile run (a marathon).

Can triathlon bikes climb hills?

The aerodynamic advantages of a tri bike are negligible when climbing and you may be forced to utilise the quadriceps more, which can hinder your run performance. If you struggle on the hills and don’t have solid descending skills then I’d almost always recommend a road bike.

Is a tri bike faster than a road bike?

Triathlon bikes are designed to make riders faster. The seat tube is closer to vertical than a road bike’s. This steeper geometry places the rider’s hips over the crankset which engages their quadriceps more for increased power.” Tri bikes are more aerodynamic and are “faster” than road bikes.

Do you need a triathlon bike for Ironman?

You Don’t Need a Fancy Bike First off, it’s not about the bike. Seriously, you don’t need a snazzy triathlon bike to do well in one of these races. But the best bang-for-your-buck when it comes to Ironman racing isn’t necessarily buying the fastest bike.

How much should I spend on a triathlon bike?

Still, it is pretty easy to spend $1,500 to $2,000 on a quality starter triathlon bike and end up with a very good ride. Here are a few things to look for in your entry-level tri bike, along with a few recommendations.