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Difference Between Tri-Bikes and Road Bikes

What are the differences between a "tri bike" and a racing road bike? Do these differences really matter if I am not a competitive athlete at a professional level? I can reword this question as "Do I really need a tri bike or can I be competitive locally with a regular road bike?

Thanks, and this site rocks!

Eric from Connecticut

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Hi Eric,
Thank you for contacting TriathaNewbie.com and thanks for the kind words!

The difference between Tri-Bikes and Road Bikes are really only noticeable to triathletes who have been around for a while and want to get serious about the bike leg. Without going into major mechanical details, the bikes are tweaked to work slightly different. It's comparable to swimmers who can compete very effectively with a regular swim suit but wants to get the high-tech suit because it is mechanically enhanced to gain that extra edge. Honestly, if you are a beginner, you just want to finish; you're not looking for that extra competitive edge. Wait until you've done a few before you you turn into a Triatha-Nut!

Be well.
Jack
TriathaNewbie.com staff


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