Bike Basics

ZenInTexas

I am hoping to do a triathlon next year. I currently do not own a bike but it looks like I might be getting one in the next couple months. I know NOTHING about bikes. (Other than how to ride one) What do I need to know before purchasing? Give me the basics. I will hopefully be using it for both triathlons and longer road races, I would like to do the MS150. Keep in mind that budget is a factor.

BrianSharpe

Probably the best piece of advice I can offer is to find a good local bike shop and have a look at their road bikes (unless you're racing seriously and have a ton of cash to spend a TT bike is out of the question). If you're budget conscious there are a ton of bikes with aluminum frames that are great values.

Don't fall into the trap of obsessing about weight. Unless you're riding in very hilly / mountainous areas a few grams here or there makes no discernible difference however money spent on better quality / lighter wheels and tires with lower rolling resistance is money well spent. Similarly don't obsess over the groupset (shifters, derailleurs, brakes), as much as I'd love to have Dura-Ace or Ultegra the Shimano 105 is probably the best overall value on the market today (and, if properly maintained, will give you decades of service)

Fit is everything. A proper bike fit makes a world of difference in both comfort and mechanical efficiency and significantly reduces the likelihood of injuring yourself.

If you decide on getting cycling shoes & clipless pedals (highly recommended) pick a cleat that gives you a reasonable amount of float (side to side motion) at least to start with (I use the Look Keo pedals with a red cleat)

Once you've got your bike ride it as much as you can, if there's a local tri or cycling club consider joining. many of them will organize time trials, group rides etc and most importantly.....

have fun & ride safely!

scott091501

Brian pretty much nailed it. Unless you're willing to go $2k+ and I stress the plus a tri bike is out. Plus you're probably better off if you're going to ride with roadies getting a road bike anyway. Where in Texas are you?

ZenInTexas

Brian pretty much nailed it. Unless you're willing to go $2k+ and I stress the plus a tri bike is out. Plus you're probably better off if you're going to ride with roadies getting a road bike anyway. Where in Texas are you?

Thanks for the replies guys! I'm in the Houston suburbs. Katy to be specific.

scott091501

Brian pretty much nailed it. Unless you're willing to go $2k+ and I stress the plus a tri bike is out. Plus you're probably better off if you're going to ride with roadies getting a road bike anyway. Where in Texas are you?

Thanks for the replies guys! I'm in the Houston suburbs. Katy to be specific.

Oh you've got all kinds of options (I live in Cypress). Bicycle World of Houston is having a sale right now, Bike Barn is a good option, and Spring Valley Cycles are close(ish) to you. In Cypress there is Tru Tri Sports (also carry road bikes), and in town there is Tri on the Run. All carry different brands that will have different geometry. Ride as many as you can and then keep an eye out for deals on the ones that feel comfortable.