Beginner bike questions

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2018-05-28 11:24 AM


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Subject: Beginner bike questions
Hello everyone. I have recently started training for tri with the hope of completely my first Ironman 70.3 around this time next year (UT). A couple of bike questions. 1. Does anyone have any experience with a 52/36 gearing vs a 50/34? 2. Is it worth buying a tribike if that is going to be the majority of why I am riding? Thanks!


2018-05-28 1:19 PM
in reply to: NPull2451

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Subject: RE: Beginner bike questions
Hey there and welcome!

If you plan on racing triathlons mostly then a triathlon bike will better serve you. You can complete a 70.3 on a road bike, plenty of people do it. However, if you are planning on getting into the sport for the long haul, then i would go ahead and get a trip bike.

As far as gearing goes...if you are spending a lot of time in your 3-4 smallest cogs, the 52/36 would probably help with your chain line which may reduce stress on your drivetrain.

You can use this gear calculator to compare the different set-ups: http://www.gear-calculator.com
2018-05-28 1:55 PM
in reply to: #5243891


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Subject: RE: Beginner bike questions
Parkland, thank you! That is helpful!!!
2018-05-28 7:19 PM
in reply to: #5243896


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Subject: RE: Beginner bike questions
Also, I found this kit from Nytro. Any idea of whether or not this is a good deal? https://www.nytro.com/triathlon-package-pro-mens.html
2018-05-28 9:29 PM
in reply to: #5243905

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Subject: RE: Beginner bike questions
Looks like a solid bike. I had a Fuji tri bike with oval concept and Shimano 105 components and it ran very well. The caveat is knowing whether or not it will fit you. Part of the package is a bike fit, if you buy in shop. That would be helpful if you are near one of their stores.

The other stuff is prett solid too I think. HUUB makes good stuff and Shimano shoes are always a solid pick.

I’ve kind of picked up my stuff here and there to save money, but if you have the cash to drop on a package deal then it may be a good option for you.
2018-05-29 9:23 PM
in reply to: NPull2451


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Subject: RE: Beginner bike questions
Originally posted by NPull2451

Hello everyone. I have recently started training for tri with the hope of completely my first Ironman 70.3 around this time next year (UT). A couple of bike questions. 1. Does anyone have any experience with a 52/36 gearing vs a 50/34? 2. Is it worth buying a tribike if that is going to be the majority of why I am riding? Thanks!


There isn't a great deal of difference between the 52/36 and the 50/34. If you're stronger on the bike or live in a flatter area, you might find the 52 a better choice, if you have lots of hills in your area, you might prefer to have the 34. You can always swap out chain rings without too much fuss, so it's not an irrevocable choice.


2018-05-30 9:02 AM
in reply to: NPull2451

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Subject: RE: Beginner bike questions
For he gearing... pick one you think will suit your for the course you are riding and train and race with it. Some people like to push big gears on hills and some like to spin. Personal preference.

If you are investing time into the sport and plan on doing long courses, I'd recommend a tri bike. Doesn't have to be the best super bike on the planet, but most tri bikes will give you and aero advantage over a road bike.
2018-05-30 12:18 PM
in reply to: NPull2451

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Subject: RE: Beginner bike questions

Welcome to the sport.  

On road bikes, "standard" cranksets are 53/39 and "compact" cranksets are 50/34 or 50/36.   "Triples" are often 52/42/30?  

Gearing depends on the cassette as much as the crankset. 

Assuming a compact with 11-tooth small ring on the cassette, the mechanical advantage is 50/11 (4.5455) and at 90 rpm pedal cadence (considered the default cadence) you'll cruise along at 31.68 mph with 700Cx23 tires (circumference 2.091 meters).  

Repeating with a 52 tooth crank and 12-tooth small ring, the advantage is 52/12 (4.333) or 30.2 mph.  

Most of us mere mortals don't ride this fast so the choice of cranksets is mute.  

On the other hand...if you're riding up a big hill...a 36/25 is slightly better than a 34/23 and would be noticeably easier than a 36/23.  Since you haven't mentioned the range on the cassette, it's a half-complete answer.  

As for the Nytro kit...if you'd independently buy all of the items in the kit, it's probably a great deal.  If you'd accept the items in the kit but they aren't your first choice, it's a good deal.  If you end up buying the kit AND replacements for what you really want, it's not a good deal.  

 

2018-05-30 3:54 PM
in reply to: #5243909


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Subject: RE: Beginner bike questions
Thanks everyone! Reading all of your comments, I think I am going to go with a road bike for now seeing that I will be using it for tri, Training, and for group rides. I can always upgrade in the future if I get more competitive in tris. Another reason is price. Although the kit would’ve been good for me, and a tri bike more specific to my goals, I just don’t have the cash to drop all at once right now. Thank you all for your input and advice! I look forward to racing and am excited to join the world of triathlon!
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