Built for pure, aerodynamic efficiency more than long-ride comfort, these are the speed demons of the road bike world. TT (time trial) and Tri (triathlon) are closely related – but not exactly the same.
The rider is positioned quite low on specialized “aerobars”, handlebars that support rider weight at the forearm (the rider is crouched forward, resting his weight on his forearms rather than the hands). Shifters and brakes are mounted on the aerobars so the rider doesn’t have to change position at all – the controls are literally at the rider’s fingertips.Rider position is quite aggressive. The aerobars are often a few inches lower than the saddle, putting the rider in an aerodynamic position for maximum leverage and power. – and speed. Gearing on a TT bike is similar to that of a road race bike, with one exception – the big chainring is often much larger (55-tooth as opposed to the traditional 53-tooth of a road racer). This allows the rider to push enormous gears. Some TT bikes don’t have a smaller chainring. This depends on the terrain (hill-climb TT bikes are not a genre of their own, but rather extremely lightweight and stiff road bikes). Tri bikes are generally geared the same as a road racer, with 53/39 tooth front chainrings. Many Ironman-length triathletes prefer a slightly more upright position than TT bikes offer, to maximize rider comfort over the course of the 100-mile plus cycling portion of the triathlon.
TT/Tri racers have the option of racing with disc wheels that reduce drag and improve aerodynamics. Frames are likewise shaped for maximum aero benefit – every detail down to bolts and seat tubes is considered. Skinsuits, shoe covers, hydration bladders that fit under skinsuits, and teardrop helmets are the norm among serious TT racers. Tri racers don’t have time to change into TT gear and don’t use it.
Comments
0 Response to 'Time-Trial/Triathlon Bikes'
Post a Comment