Triathlon Bikes

Triathlon bikes are a variant of the road-racing/time trial bike, created with a focus on optimizing the rider’s and bike’s aerodynamics. In triathlons, cyclists generally do not draft as in other cycling sports. Triathletes benefit by reducing wind resistance as much as possible.

Most bike components available to the triathlete are created with an aerodynamic profile:

• Oval and/or teardrop frame tubes instead of a circular cross-section.
• Handlebars are given a similar treatment.
• The infamous aerobar in lieu of traditional handle bars.
• Wheels with reduced spoke counts.
• Carbon fiber tri-spokes and discs.
• Bicycle frames with radical shapes and aggressive geometries.

Triathlon bikes generally sport an “aggressive” geometry, in English that means almost vertical tubes coupled with stem and handlebars relatively low to the rider’s saddle. This places the rider in a more aerodynamic position by creating a smaller surface. Some triathletes also feel cycling in this position preserves the running muscles by by utilizing different muscle groups than used in running.

Aerobars

Aerobars, sometimes referred to as tri-bars, are designed to put the cyclist in a position to decrease wind resistance. Instead of the standard “drop bars” used on road bikes, aerobars are mounted in the center of a set of bars that stretch straight forward. These straight bars are also referred to as bull horns. Padded arm rests just above the stem support the elbows or forearms and the hands hold the center bar. This puts the rider’s elbows in close to the body and lowers his or her torso compared to the usual upright placement. Brakes are usually mounted on the horns and the gear shifters are mounted on the tips of the aero bars permitting.

Wheels

A dizzying array of aerodynamic and ultra-light wheels exist for triathlon bikes. For example, some wheels have an aerodynamic ring, flat spokes, or fewer spokes than the conventional 32 and last, but not least; carbon-fiber tri-spokes. Wheels which are lighter are traditionally preferred although this is not the only consideration. Large profile rims are more aerodynamic than typical low profile rims.

Solid discs are also an option, but not generally for the front wheel due to crosswinds. Disc wheels give a significant aerodynamic boost when mounted on the rear. Recently, disc wheels with a surface dimpled like a golf ball have appeared in an attempt to improve aerodynamics.

Some triathlon bikes opt for 650c rims instead of the typical 700c rims on road bikes. They weigh less, are less effected by crosswinds, and reduce the overall wind resistance of the bike by reducing overall profile of the bike an rider. A potential drawback is the increased rolling resistance of the smaller rim. Which way you go will depend on the rider and the windiness of the course.

Triathlon Footwear

Triathlon cycling footwear is similar to other types of cycling shoe. Clip-less bindings that snap the rider’s feet to the pedals. Tri footwear differs in that they might be padded to permit use without socks, have holes to allow water to drain easily and have only one or two Velcro straps to easily fastening them.