Triathlon/Time Trial Bikes

When competing in a triathlon it is important to have the most suitable bicycle available to you. Time trial bikes are those carefully designed with speed and competitive events in mind. They are likely to have received extensive research and development before being put out to the market and will use the latest technology available. When looking for a time trial bike for women, it is important to ensure the specifications suit your body shape.

Time trial bikes are, above all else, aerodynamic. The frame is designed using careful geometry to ensure that the ride is streamlined with as little friction created as possible. Factors such as weight and handling are secondary to speed. As aerodynamics are so important in time trial bicycles it is vital for women to get a ladies time trial bike. This will ensure women are correctly positioned to reduce friction adjusting the geometry of the bicycle to suit the female form.

In addition to the frame, wheels and other components are designed to decrease drag and increase speed. 'Triathlon' handlebars are used in time trial bicycles to force the cyclists into an aerodynamic body position in order to gain speed. Time trial bikes should have higher gearing than a typical road bike.

Bicycles designed specifically for triathlons may differ to time trial bicycles; however in many respects they are similar. When finding a triathlon bike for women for a race that includes hilly terrain, look for a womens tri bike with a higher weight, lower gears and higher levels of comfort.