Triathlon/Time Trial Bikes

Time trial bikes are often the best choice of machine for the triahtlete, whose requirements are different from those of the long-distance road rider. Users of triathlon bikes UK based or otherwise, should look at using specially designed machines rather than an old road bike.

Triathletes often opt for a more upright and forward position for the seat tubes of TT cycles, as this provides more power as well as saving certain leg muscles for the run which follows.

The emphasis of the design of TT bikes is also on aerodynamics and speed rather than long-term comfort. Ridley is one manufacturer who are using new surface technologies to help reduce drag, as well as jet foil forks which clamp down on wheel turbulence.

Orbea is another good choice for the discerning cyclist. These machines are from Spain and are used by the famous Basque cycling team Euskaltel-Euskadi in their time trial stages. Triathlete Craig Alexander has also triumphed twice in the Ironman of Hawaii event using their machines, which combine lightness, rigidity and excellent power transmission in their designs.

Another manufacturer to consider is Scott, whose Plasma 20 range has made some of the features of professional standard TT cycles affordable to recreational cyclists. Ultra narrow tube profiles and dual wheel shelters are among the design points which make these machines desirable.

TT bikes are a specialist item for a very specific type of cycling event. It is therefore advisable to seek some qualified advice from a cycle store about what is required, as different athletes will be seeking differently nuanced bikes to suit them personally.