Benefits of Tri Bike vs. Road Bike - Triathlon Week

gfd4925 · 01-24-2006, 07:40 AM

I am currently researching tri bikes in hopes of making a purchase by summer. I have never owned a tri or a road bike. Last night I visited a LBS and the salesperson directed me towards road bikes. The half Ironman I eventually plan on attempting would probably be in Lake Placid which is somewhat hilly. His opinion was that the benefits of the easier climb afforded by the road bike would offset the benefits of the angle position of a tri bike. He only would recommend a tri bike for a flat course. Any opinions on this subject would be greatly appreciated. I have already recieved some previous feedback touting the flexibility of road bikes in regards to different types of rides and races.

Thanks,
GFD

Carpe Diem · 01-24-2006, 09:47 AM

Good morning GFD,

In my humble opinion a road bike offers a stronger appeal. Comfort, versatility and cost effectivness being the decisive factors. Unless money is of no concern and you want to do like the Pro's...buy both. If you find that you really prefer timetrialing to the variety of tri-courses go for a tri-specific bike and forget about comfort. I enjoy century rides in addition to triathlon, so my choice was a road bike. A proper fit is most important!! Find a pro to fit you.

Best of luck

gfd4925 · 01-24-2006, 10:30 AM

CD,
I see that you ride a Madone 5.2. That was one of the models I looked at last night. The shop carries Trek and Cannondale. The Madone seems like an outstanding bike. I can't believe how light it is and how aerodynamic it looks. The salesperson was also very high on the 5200. My questions are: are you happy with the bike and did you test any other Trek products before deciding on the 5.2? The shop also offers pro fitting for a price. Thank you for the advice.

GFD

Carpe Diem · 01-24-2006, 11:12 AM

GFD,
I arrived at the bikeshop intending to buy a Litespeed and found the Trek to be a better fit. I bought a Madone 5.2 for my wife also. We are quite happy with them. We have friends that liked our bikes and went to the same shop. They both decided on the 5200, and like them very much.

I didn't test any others. I was able to get a pro fitting and set-up thru the bikeshop. (the fitting was free with the purchace price of both bikes). I belong to a bike club that has a wealth of experience in adjusting me to my bike and my strengths/weakness.

CD