Triathlon bikes and race bikes have unique features that make them specialized for specific events. Triathlon bikes have features that make them well-suited for fast rides in a triathlon. A race bike, on the other hand, has features for a wide variety of activities, including climbing or drafting. Review the features, and determine your cycling goals to choose the bike that fits your riding style.
Seat
Seat angle is one of the major differences between triathlon and race bikes. Triathlon bikes have a greater seat angle that typically measures 76 to 78 degrees. This seat angle allows for an increase in the transfer of power into the pedals. Seat angle on race bikes is typically about 73 degrees, which allows for greater versatility when riding in a pack or climbing hills.
Handlebars
Triathlons are typically shorter than cycling races. As a result, triathlon bikes incorporate handle bars--commonly referred to as "aerobars"--to increase aerodynamics. Aerobars are handlebars that extend straight out from the center of the handlebars. Race bikes have traditional handlebars where the hands are positioned on top of the handles for easy shifting and braking.
Frame
Triathlon bike frames are designed for aerodynamics and speed. To maximize aerodynamics, triathlon bikes have a shorter head tube distance (the distance from the handle bars to the front wheel) and a shorter top tube distance (the distance from the seat post to the handle bars). Triathlon bikes also have a longer front center dimension (distance from the chain to the front wheel). Road bike frames are built for climbing, maneuvering and drafting. They are typically more durable and more likely to survive a crash during training or competition.
Speed
Triathlons consist of three different sports--swimming, biking and running--making the biking portion of the race less important than a regular bike race. Most triathletes aim for all-out speed and power during the biking segment of the triathlon. The triathlon bikes are built for speed over short distances by efficiently capturing the power of each pedal stroke. Road bikes still have the capability of producing high speeds, but are not designed with speed as the number one priority.
Wheels
Wheels are another component to triathlon bikes that add to the aerodynamics. Some triathletes install aerodynamic rings, solid discs, flat spokes or carbon-fiber tri-spokes to increase speed. Road bikes will typically have 700c wheels, or diameter of 70 centimeters, and triathlon bikes will have 650c wheels, or diameter of 65 centimeters.
Price
Components, materials and construction can affect the price of triathlon and race bikes. Depending on these features, both bikes will cost about the same. Bikes with new lightweight materials, and the best components can cost as much as $10,000.
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