Hello! I'm a newbie from Arlington, VA

Welcome to the boards and it's good to see other people from Northern Virginia participating. This board provides some awesome resources for getting started. First read as many of the articles as you can about getting started. Second review the training programs listed on the board and find one that fits your fitness level and schedule. This will give you an idea of when you will be ready for a triathlon. Most people target a sprint triathlon, which most people who are reasonably fit can complete, but probably not compete for top a finish. If you are a complete coach potato it may take a while to get in the right shape. I think if you want to you can compete in a sprint by the fall and the board has training programs for this. Third, as far as the bike, I would hold off on the bike until you do some research. I currently regret the bike I purchased. I bought an entry level road bike with a frame that I don't like. I would look for a used road bike or hybrid to get started and learn your bike preferences then save up for the right bike. Several of the local bike stores sell used bikes and can fit the bike to you. Fit is always the most important thing when looking for a bike. There is nothing like completing your first triathlon. Enjoy the boards.

Welcome from the Northern Virginia Area. There are also some smaller sprint tri to consider to get your feet wet. There is one Aug 21 in Mananass that I have heard good things about.

http://www.triitnow.com/summersupersprint.htm