What kind of bike do I need 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

What is the difference between time trial bike and triathlon bike?

By design, triathlon bikes are made to go the distance. In contrast, time trial riders get off the bike completely spent. Their bikes are designed for only one thing—speed. As such, triathlon bikes favor a more relaxed position and a lighter frame than time trial bikes.

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!

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.

Is it worth getting a triathlon bike?

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. And if you’d ever like to bike with a group of cyclists, they’ll probably shun you if all you have is a tri bike.

Why are carbon bikes so expensive?

One of the biggest factors in the cost of bicycles is materials. Carbon fiber comes in various forms and grades. The higher the quality of carbon, the greater the cost of sourcing from manufacturers. If a bike manufacturer is also fabricating its own carbon, this cost must be recouped in the sale price of a bike.

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.

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.

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.