Triathlon is an ever-growing sport once dominated by professional endurance athletes and adventurers. However, this is no longer the case as large fields, populated mostly by amateur athletes, many with backgrounds running road and trail races of various distances, expand their athletic pursuits into triathlon. The sprint triathlon is the entry-level distance for many participants new to the sport. Many will be hooked on triathlon and cannot wait to compete again while others will never attempt another. Equipment for the swim and run are minimal investments, but a new bike can be a different matter. The bike leg of a sprint triathlon is generally 12 to 15 miles, and many choose to ride it on whatever they already have.
Mountain Bike
It is common to see a lot mountain bikes raced used for the bike leg of a sprint triathlon. Although capable of completing the relatively short distance, it is not ideal for going fast. Some minor modifications can make a difference. Replacing the thick knobby tires with thinner slick ones will reduce rolling resistance, while a clip-on aerodynamic bar attached to the existing handlebar will allow you to lower your torso into an aerodynamic position, reducing air resistance. Adding clip-less pedals will increase the efficiency of your pedal stroke and transfer of power from the bike's drive train to the road.
Road Bike
A road bike's design is better suited for general riding --- maneuvering in a peloton, ascending or descending hills, or commuting than triathlon racing. However, modifications to a road bike for short course triathlon competition are possible. Aerodynamic bars when clipped onto existing handlebars and a lighter saddle tilted slightly forward will help position the rider to reduce wind resistance.
Triathlon Bike
A triathlon bike's design allows the rider to maintain an aerodynamic position in relative comfort and efficiency throughout the bike leg of the competition. The frame geometry of a triathlon bike differs from that of a road bike. The angle of the seat tube is sharper, typically 76 to 78 degrees, providing more room between the riders thighs and lower torso for easier breathing, reduced stress on the lower back, and tension in the leg muscles, especially the hamstrings. This is important because the hamstring muscles arrive fresher at the run leg of the race. That said, triathlon bikes are not as maneuverable, nor do they climb as well as road bikes.
Conclusion
If you are new to triathlon, and are unsure if you will enjoy it, a mountain or road bike will work for short-course or sprint-distance racing because you will likely be off the bike in one hour or less. If you find yourself wanting to race in the future, and perhaps wanting to move up to a longer distance event, you will find a triathlon bike an investment worth making. Not only will your times during the bike leg improve, you will be more comfortable on the bike and during the run to follow.
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