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
TriathaNewbie.com Recommended Resources:


Triathlon Swim : – Get the low-down on gear and read tips for training and events.
Triathlon Bike: – Learn how to structure bike workouts, find safety tips and read recommendations on great bike gear.
Triathlon Run : – Get the ultimate skinny on running sneakers, running gear, safety tips and much more.



“First Triathlon” Stories
Read stories written by people like YOU who talk about their first triathlon.
“Triathlete Profile
Read interviews of people like YOU who give advice on training, balance and much more.
There are Newbies Starting Triathlons Every Day. Today Just Happens to be YOUR Day!


Pennsylvania Triathlon – Connellsville Parks and Recreation Triathlon –-Great sprint triathlon for beginners!
New York Triathlon – Brooklyn Sports Club Mini Indoor Triathlon – This unique indoor event is perfect for first-timers

Is My Bike Ready for a Triathlon? …My concern is I will start ramping up my training and my bike won’t last…
Buying a Triathlon Bike– Learn how to buy the right bike without breaking the bank from experts in the field

Running: Good for the Body and the Brain – Could running make you smarter? The answer may surprise you.
Triathlon QuestionWalking Instead of Running in a Triathlon –– The race promoters presented an award to a 69 year old female who had had 2 knee replacements…

New York Triathlon – Brooklyn Sports Club Mini Indoor Triathlon –This unique indoor event is perfect for first-timers
Georgia Triathlon – Tri for the Shelter Sprint Triathlon – USAT sanctioned, This triathlon takes place in the gorgeous Rocky Mountain Recreation..

My First Triathlon, Nicholas D’Angelo – It was the end of my life as I knew it and the beginning of the beginning. I decided that I wanted to live. I wanted to be a better husband, father, son, brother, uncle, and friend…
First Triathlon Story – Greg H. from Texas – just to raise your arms at the finish line and know that you accomplished a triathlon is such a great feeling.

Age Groups – Can you tell me why the age groups are 25 to 34 … while most races use 20 to 29, 30 to 39, and 40 to 49?
Triathlon ResourceWhat to Wear for a Triathlon – Is it insane to think I can bike/run in shorts and a sports bra that I swam in?