Tri bike

Well, presumably you CAN afford a tri bike right now... if you're really thinking about buying one.  So the real issue is that it might not be the most financially responsible thing, yes?  I don't know those two courses, but the make-up of the courses might be what should determine your decision (for now - I think every triathlete should have a TT bike sooner or later, because they do make a big difference).  If the courses are generally hilly with few flats, I would say just stick with the road bike because you won't be in the aero position that much anyways.  If the courses are generally flat, I would lean towards getting a TT bike because it will make the bike portions (and, subsequently, the run portions) much less painful.  Personally, I do most of my training on my road bike - it's heavier, for one thing, but it's also more comfortable.  However, I ride the TT bike at least once a week to make sure I stay comfortable on it.  It DOES make a difference in a race - but if you can bear to wait, it might be worth it to save for a couple of months and get a really nice, carbon TT bike instead of settling for (I'm guessing) a lower grade aluminum one, especially if you want to keep doing tri's long term.  What does everyone else think?

actually, on the bike front, if you are at a price point wherey ou would be making the hcoice between alum and carbon, the alum bike is prob theb etter choice, as it will be a higher priced alum vs lower grade carbon.


to the OP, i only own a tri bike right now, but have gone thorugh periods of both, one, or hte other.


in the winters i ride the road bike almost exclusively. in the sumemrsif i have both i split it about 50/50 or 60/40 in the favor of the road bike. easy spins, climbing, and some longer rides on the road bike, more intervals and tempo on the TT bike.

if i only had one i would do the tri bike, but then again i racea LOT.

if yo uare not ok doing that, and can only have one bike, stick with the road bike for sure.

Personally, a road bike with aero works out pretty well.  If you do go for the tri bike, make certain you get in numerous rides on it before the race.  The setup will definitely hit different muscles.  If you like your road bike, keep it if you can't get out of it what you want.  The resale price often makes it such that your just better off having one of each. 

As long as you have the aero bars set the right way, plus if you move the seat forward to get the steeper seat post angle then you will be fine.  Don't buy a tri bike untill you can buy a good one.  You would be better off putting some money into your road bike or having a pro-fit at a tri shop.  If you don't like training on a tri bike then stick with the road for the race.  I have two bikes a tri and a MTB.  I don't miss having a road bike.  About the only thing I can't do is a group road ride but those always turn in to a high intensity little race anways, not the best for training.