Wheels form a crucial component to a race-ready Tri bike and so should be factored into the price. Alternatively, some electronic groupset options allow for simultaneous shifting capabilities in the drops, which is particularly useful for more technically inclined time trial courses. Choosing a mechanical groupset confines shifting to the aerobar extensions, and braking to the drops. Finally, the component choice is another important time trial bike purchase decision. A steeper seat tube, often combined with a Tri specific saddle, will bring you much further forward over the bottom bracket to more effectively get you in to your most aerodynamic frontal position. Compared to using a road bike with clip-on time trial bars, an integrated handlebar setup combined with the shorter head tube of a tri-specific bike, has a profound impact on reducing drag and increasing performance.Īdditionally, the seat position is another feature that distinguishes a Tri bike from other bicycle models.

This factor goes hand in hand with the handlebar setup, which has a dramatic effect on the frontal area of the rider. This is to maximise a reduction in wind resistance, making the rider as fast as possible, particular at high speeds. It's crucial to consider what governing body you will ride under if you choose to race! Generally, a smaller proportion of time trial bikes available on the market are considered UCI legal, due to more stringent requirements, and the ease of bicycle manufacturers to simply cater to the larger majority who participate within the triathlon discipline.Īerodynamic advantage is notably achieved on time trial bikes with aggressive frame geometries.

For road time trialists, the governing body is the International Cycling Union (UCI), while in triathlon, it is the International Triathlon Union (ITU). There is often a major distinction within the market for triathlon and time trial bikes, as the competition governing body rules differ. Here aerodynamic efficiency is a decisive factor in overall race performance, as is being able to run after having been on the bike. Whereas Tri bikes are designed for either short and fast or longer endurance distances, including Ironman-type events. Optimising aerodynamic efficiency is best achieved with aggressive frame geometries and maximising stiffness for better power transfer, so these factors take precedence over others like versatility, responsiveness and comfort.Įngineered with a focus on speed, TT bikes are designed for riders who specialise in races against the clock.

It is important to emphasise that Triathlon bikes are specifically designed to meet the demands of both time trialling and triathlon, subsequently they are not exactly suitable for general everyday use.

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