triathlon_article_Bike_Recommendation_for_Your_1st_Triathlon

  Ok I am getting ready to start training for my first mini triathalon, but I have no idea about what kind of bike I should use. I have never really been into biking before so I really don’t know anything about them. What would you suggest for a first timer?

Hannah from California

  Hi Hannah
Thank you for contacting TriathaNewbie.com!

With the economy the way it is, it’s scary to think about buying “extras” as a beginner triathlete. You can get a bike for about $100-$200 that’s reliable and decent. We’d suggest that you head down to your local bike shop and talk with one of the guys there. They can show you what they have in your price-range and properly fit you to the bike. They will also be much more invested in the sale because they will want you to come back as repeat business. We don’t recommend you heading to a big store chain as they don’t give you the personalized attention, they are sales people and not bike connoisseurs and you could walk away with an over-priced bike that doesn’t fit you (support small business!).

The other way you can go is Craigslist or another classifieds website. If you go that route, you need to make sure that the bike fits you (not hyper-extending when the pedal is down; 90 degree bend in the knee when the pedal is up; not straining neck/back to reach the breaks) and that it’s safe. The local bike shop might sell used bikes too. Ask them about it.

My personal favorite is my Trek. I got it for about $150 at my local bike shop. They recommended it, fit it to me and I was off to the races!

Be well.
~Megan

TriathaNewbie.com Staff
TriathaNewbie.com – Guiding beginner triathletes into the world of mini-triathlons