tri-suit or no tri-suit?

I'd go with the tri suit, or something tri specific. Being a newbie also, not having to worry about what to wear next makes it a whole lot easier.

Tri clothes definately a +++.....other than a bike, goggles and a pair of running shoes...tri clothes are at the top of the list. Trisuits are great for races - not as many people wear them to train in. If you are looking for something that you can train in and race in you may go with tri shorts and a tri top. Both will give you the padding for the bike (thinner padding than bike shorts - so you can still run in them) and the quick drying material.

Have a safe return home!

I just completed my first tri last week (shamefull plug, yeah me) and I thought having the tri suit was one of the best things I had. Hitting the transition areas is stressfull enough without having to worry about changing any extra clothes. 2nd best thing I think I had too make things easier was a race belt to put my number on. No pinning the number to an extra jersey to wear.