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’s the point of a triathlon bike?

On the bike leg, about 75-80% of the drag comes from you rather than the bike so it’s vital that you’re in the most aero position possible. Tri bikes are designed to help you become streamlined by positioning your torso level with the ground.

Do you need a special bike for a triathlon?

Yes, you will need a bike. No, it does not need to be expensive. We see people do triathlons on their old mountain bikes, hybrids, or other slower bikes — and especially with a couple simple modifications these bikes can do very well. If you can, try to use a road bike, even if you simply borrow one from a friend.

Is triathlon bike good for road?

​While both road bikes and tri bikes are both used in a road cycling competition, the specialized triathlon bikes will give you an edge in shorter distances. Road bikes are designed with comfort from the ground up and are ideal for longer distances. They’re also lighter, making them suitably adapted for hill climbing.

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.

Is a triathlon 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.

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.

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.

Why are tri 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.

Can you listen to music during a triathlon?

No Tunes, No Selfies Headphones, headsets and audio devices are not allowed at any time during any triathlon event. Most races allow you to carry your cell phone if you wish, but it must be stored out of sight in a bike bag or jersey pocket.

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.

Do I need a triathlon bike for an 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.

Is it hard to ride a triathlon bike?

Triathlon bikes are squirrelly aerodynamic beasts. They are great for speed, but frame geometry, riding down on aerobars and weight distribution (especially with bento boxes and bar-mounted hydration systems) can make tri bikes especially difficult to handle as compared to road bikes.

Can you change a triathlon bike to a road bike?

The geometry is different on most tri frames but there are some bikes that are double-duty (Kestrels come to mind). Fit is key to making it work and due to your position on a tri bike, you may need a setback seatpost to get anywhere near a road bike fit.

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.