What To Look For
Look for aero bars. Aero bars dominate triathlon bike geometry. Aero bars are the extension that allow the rider to lean forward over the handlebars. There are special cups that fit the forearms on top of the handlebars. There are hand grips with shifter levers on extensions only a few inches apart above the front tire. This allows the rider to lean down on his forearms into a "tuck" position. Look for wheels with few spokes or wheels with composite braces instead of spokes. Look for a compact frame that appears smaller than road bike frames with square angles you don't often see on road bikes.
Common Pitfalls
Triathlon bikes are uncomfortable. They are built for speed and aerodynamics. When leaning into the aerobars on triathlon bikes, your stomach can come in contact with your thighs as you pedal the bike. This can hamper your lung function and make it difficult to breath. Another problem with triathlon bikes is stiffness. Road bikes have a relaxed geometry and even shock-absorbing carbon and elastic inserts to make riding more comfortable. Triathlon bikes are often made from the stiffest of aluminum or carbon for more power transfer. This makes the bikes quicker, but leads to rougher riding.
Where To Buy
For triathlon bikes, nothing beats a bike shop. Triathlon bikes are exclusive and usually not found in most department stores. Some bike shops cater to high-end racing. This is the best place to buy your tri-bike because they can get you the fit you need on these unforgiving bikes. Other good options are the nearest REI store. They have about the biggest selection with good prices and a bike shop mechanics to back you up. Other good options for buying are online dealers like Performance Cycling and Bike Nashbar. Also check online for used triathlon bikes. Most triathlon bikes do not have high mileage and are perfectly fine.
Cost
Triathlon bikes are expensive. Triathletes are serious about their craft and are willing to pay up to $6,000 for all-carbon frames and composite wheels. Most entry-level carbon framed tri-bikes cost between $2,000 and $3,000. These are the best for the money. If you are really not sure if triathlons are your thing, you can get a stripped down steel bike for $500, but be aware that it will be far heavier than other triathlon bikes.
Comparison Shopping
Road bikes can be used for triathlons--people do it all the time but road bikes are slower. Road bikes have pedals that do not unclip as readily as triathlon pedals when transitioning from the water to the bike. Aero bars can be put on a road bike, but it puts the rider too far forward. Triathlon bikes have a steeper seat tube angle than road bikes and a slightly shorter top tube to accommodate for the torso stretch of the aerobars.
Accessories
Triathlon specific biking shoes have elastic or Velcro straps that go on quick and come off quick. Other features are pedals that adapt to special shoes which are quicker and more user-friendly than standard SPD cleats found on road bikes. Optional triathlon-specific pedals are bigger with wider cleats that make it easier to get in and out of when you are in a hurry. Other accessories are glasses that have wrap-around elastic or very tight-fitting earpieces that won't slip off when your hair is wet.
Insider Tips
Nothing makes a bike faster than lighter wheels. Buy the best wheels you can afford. These composite wheels can cost almost as much as the bike itself, but are worth it if you are serious about competing. If you are going from a road bike to a triathlon bike, be aware that at first, you won't be comfortable on a triathlon bike. They ride rough and are hard to control because of the torso's forward positioning. But they are fast. Take some time to get used to riding with aerobars before getting into a group ride. Triathlon bikes have a tendency to wander from side to side until you get used to the way they handle.
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