What is a Triathlon Bike?
Triathlon events are multi-discipline races that include swimming, cycling and running. The cycling leg usually covers a 40km course and a good triathlon bike will help you hit your best times.
Triathlon bikes are specialized time trial (TT) bikes. They prioritize aerodynamics and speed over comfort and responsive handling.
Concept
A triathlon bike is a bicycle designed specifically to meet the needs of the long-distance cyclist. Its frame is built to be as aerodynamic as possible, so the rider can spend more time in an efficient tuck position and less time trying to overcome air resistance. It also requires special equipment, such as an integrated bottle cage, a power meter and a set of aero bars that allow riders to adopt the tuck position more easily.
The most common way a tri-specific bike differs from a standard road bicycle is the seat tube angle, which can vary between 72deg and 80deg. This steeper angle moves the rider further forward and opens up their hip angle, allowing them to pedal harder. This helps to counteract the tendency for triathletes to have weaker upper legs and backs, which makes it harder for them to hold the tuck position for long periods.
One of the most important differences between a tri bike and a road or time trial bike is that the frame is designed to accommodate a larger number of brake, drivetrain and crank components than are normally found on a racing bike. The result is a frame that has more structural integrity and can handle the additional loads of a full component setup.
Another way that a tri-specific bike differs from the road or TT bikes is that it can be fitted with extra features, such as storage for nutrition and tools. Most manufacturers offer a range of options for storage, from stuffed jersey pockets to carefully shaped tubes that integrate into the frame. Some designs even include a front-mounted hydration system that can be accessed while the bike is in an aero position.
Triathlon bikes are a great choice for athletes looking to take their performances up several notches without spending a fortune on a full-on race machine. They are perfect for the beginner who wants to get their first taste of competition or the experienced triathlete looking for a fast and comfortable way to cruise through an Ironman-length course.
Frame
A bike’s frame is a key component when it comes to triathlon bikes as they need to be comfortable for long rides in an aero position. Often with a long top tube to make sure the rider’s weight is evenly distributed across both wheels, they also tend to have a stub-nosed or grooved saddle that removes pressure from the perineum and distributes it over the ischial tubes (sit bones) instead.
As well as the saddle, many manufacturers build their frames with storage in mind too. These can be places to keep a water bottle and other items that help riders get through long races with ease and are often designed with the same attention to aerodynamics as the rest of the bike.
The Ribble Ultra Tri, for example, features a carbon frame with hydration and flat kit storage to give it the edge over its competitors when it comes to keeping you moving throughout your triathlon. It also uses Giant’s AeroSystem shaping technology to reduce drag even in cross winds and has hydraulic disc brakes for confident control.
With a top-of-the-line mechanical Shimano Ultegra groupset, this bike is for serious triathletes who want to go fast. Cervelo’s P-Series has been a staple of Ironman World Championship winners for years and this version is perfect for those who want to join them without spending tens of thousands of pounds. It features the same geometry as the P3 and P5 but has an elongated seat tube to allow a range of riders to find a good fit, plus integrated brakes and a Bontrager Hilo Comp triathlon-specific saddle.
While the frame is the most important part of a triathlon bike, the components are what really make it tick. This is especially true of the drivetrain, as it’s what turns your legs and arms into forward momentum. There are several different groupsets available for triathlon bikes from brands like SRAM and Shimano, which offer both mechanical and electronic options.
There are also smaller, specialist bike brands such as A2 Bikes that cut out the middleman and connect their customers directly with the manufacturers in an attempt to cut costs, improve efficiency and provide a better ride experience.
Components
Triathlon is a three-part sport, consisting of a swim, bike and run that’s raced over varying distances. The bike is a significant part of the event, making up roughly 60% of each race’s total time. As a result, triathlon-specific bikes with different cockpit set-ups, advanced aerodynamics and innovative storage solutions are highly sought after.
The key component of a triathlon bike is the frame. This is because it needs to be super light and aerodynamic, which translates to incredible speed. It’s also designed to accommodate the storage and integration systems that long-course triathletes need for hydration and nutrition.
Typically, you’ll find carbon and aluminium frames at this price range, with some bikes combining both materials for the best of both worlds. The carbon frames are often designed with a more aggressive, slender shape that’s built for extreme aerodynamics, which is perfect for the long-distance racing that is common in triathlon events.
Aside from the frame, another thing to look out for is the groupset. This is the collection of components that make up your bike’s drivetrain and transforms the kinetic energy from your legs into forward motion. This includes the crankset, derailleur and brakes.
Most top-end triathlon bikes feature high-end groupsets, such as Shimano Di2 for quick and accurate shifting, and deep carbon rims like the Roval CLX 64 hoops fitted to the Cadex Triathlon pictured above. These types of bikes also often feature a wide range of features that long-course triathletes need, including internal storage for up to 10 gels, and 600-1000ml of hydration storage.
One of the main risks associated with triathlon is the possibility of serious injury. This is particularly prevalent on the bike leg, where riders will be travelling at very high speeds. This means that they’ll need to wear the correct bike gear, including helmets and a well-fitting bike suit.
It’s important to consider the safety risks before purchasing a triathlon bike, as these can vary widely depending on the bike and the rider’s experience. The most obvious risk is the chance of crashing, which can be very dangerous at such high speeds. It’s therefore essential that you take the time to try out a variety of different bikes and learn about bike handling and safety to find your ideal ride.
Riding Experience
The Orbea Speed Concept looks like a cross between a tri bike and something The Dark Knight might ride if he rode a bicycle, and its performance lives up to the aesthetic. Designed to be used for both time trials and triathlon, it features an optimised frame design that minimises drag and allows for a low centre of gravity for better handling. It also has the Ordu OMX integrated bar system, which offers loads of adjustment and can flip up for an extra 30mm of height. It is lighter than most modern tri bikes, so it climbs well and has nimble, lively handling.
All the integration tools you need for long-distance triathlon racing are included, including rear equipment storage and tube top fuel compartments, as well as a dual downtube bottle cage. The Canyon Speedmax CF 8.0 also has Shimano’s Ultegra mechanical groupset, which provides reliable shifting and braking with minimal weight. It also comes with a DT Swiss Aeolus Comp 5 wheelset and Canyon’s own aero bars, which add to the bike’s sleek look.
Most triathlon bikes are made of carbon fibre because they need to be as lightweight as possible to be able to handle the forces that are exerted on them. There are other bike materials available, but they tend to be heavier and not as strong. For example, a touring bike is typically made of steel and has upright geometry to help the rider feel stable when carrying a heavy load. Similarly, a recreational bike is often made of aluminium because it’s light and sturdy enough for casual riders.
Time trial bikes are used in races where the rider is pitted against the clock. They are designed to be as aerodynamic as possible, so they have steeper seat tubes to allow the rider to rotate their pelvis and sit closer to or above the bottom bracket. This increases the hip angle, which helps to distribute the load across more muscles in the legs.
The Arena Games Triathlon powered by Zwift is a new and exciting event that brings together real-life racing with virtual reality to create a unique experience for fans. The event is an opportunity for fans to get up close and personal with their favourite athletes while gaining insight into the tactics and techniques that make them so successful. The race is a must-see for all fans of the sport and it will be broadcast live on Sky Sports.
