What kind of bike should I get for a triathlon?

One of the more common questions we get from beginner triathletes is if they can use their mountain bike, commuter bike, or hybrid bike in the triathlon. The answer is yes, absolutely – especially if you are doing a sprint or perhaps even an Olympic distance.

What makes a triathlon bike different?

SEAT POSITION One main difference is simply the way the seat is positioned. 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.

Is it worth buying a triathlon bike?

Budget. Just like most other bikes, spending more money on a triathlon bike will typically (but not always) result in a reduction of weight, improved shift quality, increased durability and greater comfort. For triathlon bikes specifically, you can also expect greater integration and aerodynamics too.

Do triathletes Pee on the bike?

On to the matter at hand – yes, some triathletes do, in fact, pee on their bikes. If it’s not obvious, triathletes pee while riding their bike so they don’t have to stop – saving precious time for competitive races.

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.

Is a 26 inch bike good for what height?

“26” wheel size is perfect for most of adults with a height above 6 feet. Most of the touring bikes and hybrid bikes come in 700C metric wheels, which are also known as 29-inch wheels.

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.

Can you train on a triathlon bike?

So clearly it is in any triathletes best interest to train on a tri bike if that is what you are going to race on. So get in some base miles and climbing time on the road bike, but get in long rides, some intervals and runs off the tri bike and your race should have good results!

How much faster is a tri bike than a road bike?

Speed difference came out to almost exactly one mph in favor of the tri bike. Comparing the speed profiles, I was slower climbing on the tri bike, but several miles per hour faster on any sort of descent.

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.

Why do triathletes use time trial bikes?

By design, triathlon bikes are made to go the distance. Triathletes often ride through hilly terrain, cover distances up to 112 miles during races and must transition to running quickly and efficiently. In contrast, time trial riders get off the bike completely spent. Their bikes are designed for only one thing—speed.