Whether you are a recreational rider, triathlete, group rider or racer, road bikes and triathlon bikes have a lot to offer. Knowing the differences between these types of bikes will aid you in making decisions relating to your biking habits and which type of bike is best suited for you.
Function
Road bikes are designed to perform in a variety of circumstances such as cornering, climbing and riding in groups where space is limited. Triathlon bikes are designed for speed, energy efficiency and stability.
Seat Angle
The seat angle refers to the angle of the tube that holds the seat in place in relationship to the ground. The seat tube angle of a road bike is 73 degrees, creating more power and joint stability by allowing the rider's knees to be centered over the pedals. The seat angle of a triathlon bike is steeper than that of a road bike. Triathlon bikes have a seat tube angle of 76 to 78 degrees. This allows the riders hips to open up for a more comfortable and energy efficient ride.
Weight Distribution
The rider's weight is evenly distributed between the seat and the handlebars on a road bike. The geometry of the triathlon bike results in 70 percent of the rider's weight on the handlebars and 30 percent in the saddle or seat. On a triathlon bike, the hamstrings are recruited and used more, allowing the quadriceps to conserve energy for the run portion of the triathlon.
Aero Bars
Traditionally, a road bike does not have aero bars. Aero bars are used on triathlon bikes, allowing the rider to drop into a lower more comfortable and efficient position to help with aerodynamics and energy conservation.
Short Top Tube
A triathlon bike has a short top tube accommodating the longer reach of the aero bars and assists the rider in not overextending when using aero bars.
Head Tube Angle
The tube that attaches to the front fork of a triathlon bike is known as the head tube. The head tube angle is usually more relaxed than a road bike allowing the triathlon bike to ride in a straighter line and have more stability when a rider is using their aero bars.
Shifters
A triathlon bike is equipped with bar end shifters for use in the aero bar position. A road bike is equipped with drop handlebars and integrated brakes and shifters allowing the rider to have more confidence because his hands are always on the brakes.
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