January 14th, 2012 — Biking, Clothes and Gear, Swim Bike Run
You are really going to want to choose a bicycle that fits your body perfectly, comfortable, and also fits your budget. You can buy an extremely expensive bike, but if it does not fit your frame, then it is completely worthless when it comes to meeting your bicycling needs.
The final issue that you are going to want to consider when it comes to bikes is whether you want a bike that has a classic road geometry to it, or to choose one that is more specifically triathlon oriented or forward oriented in nature. The difference that plays an important role in this decision is where your center of gravity is going to end up being in relation to the bottom bracket on your bike.
A road frame bicycle is going to put it further back. On the other hand, the standard triathlon frame is going to move you forward instead. The justification for this is that being more forward is going to make it simpler for you to get into the right position for aero bar, as well as saving some of the power from your legs so that the run, which comes after the bicycling portion of the race, is not as overwhelming and arduous as it would have been if you would have had to pedal harder or with more power.
Generally speaking, if you are more flexible, then you are going to want to go for a position that is more relaxed in nature. This is where you are going to be able to generate the biggest amount of power. If on the other hand you are older and more stiff, especially in your glutes, then you might want to be considering the forward option that the triathlon geometry bike is going to provide. This is because this is where someone with less flexibility is going to be capable of generating the biggest amount of power. Some bicycles will allow you to opt for both, and this is going to allow you to test drive different positions until you have figured out which one is going to work out for you the best over a period of time.
The biggest and most important investment that you can ever make when it comes to bicycling gear is to have a good set of wheels. Make sure that you are relying upon your bike expert to guide you through the right wheel options based on your weight, your frame size and the conditions of the race. Make sure that you are choosing aero rims and a minimum number of spokes. Do not sacrifice the integrity of your wheels for the sake of speed. Choose the right wheels for your bike, the right bike for your body, and you will do just find in the end.
Photo Credits: kisocci
Originally posted 2009-09-18 03:20:13. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
Related Posts -
Take the Biking Trip You Will Always Remember One thing many people look forward to every year is a good bike trip. There are others who have yet to take a trip of this nature. The good news is there are so many destinations for the cyclist you can always find a fun and challenging location to travel...... -
Guide to Buying a Good Beginner Road Bike People every year discover a joy never realized before in riding a bicycle. What most people face is a huge dilemma when they go to buy a beginner road bike. Even talking to friends about what they recommend is enough to blow your mind. You end up with a lot...... -
Conquering the Swim in the Triathlon The majority of the athletes that are participating in triathlons actually have a fair bit of reservation when it comes to the race's swimming portion. Even good swimmers still have reservations regarding the swimming leg of the triathlon event, and it would be crazy not to be a little worried...... -
The Importance of the Running Calendar Running is something which is usually done for fun and exercise. Even those who run for fun and exercise find themselves wanting to enter in a marathon or triathlon. This is the time when a running calendar can come in handy. This is a calendar in which you record your...... -
Triathlon Terms part 2 Here is a brief glossary of terms used in triathlon training and triathlon racing. Bonk - This describes a situation where you suddenly begin to lose energy and a level of fatigue sets in. This is typically caused by depleted glycogen stores within the liver and the muscles, and it......
Online Stores
January 10th, 2012 — Biking, Clothes and Gear, Swim Bike Run
The biggest step in figuring out what type of bike you should ride in for your triathlon is to determine what kind of money you have in your budget for the right bike. This is going to be absolutely the biggest factor in helping you to determine which bike is best going to meet your needs. Knowing that you are going to spend $1,000 or less, $2,000 or less, or anything you have to spend is going to narrow your options down considerably and very quickly, giving you a much more manageable pool of bikes to choose from so that you can make the right decision.
Once you have figured out the budget end of things, the main issue at hand is going to be to find the right fit and the right comfort of your ride. The most popular today is going to be carbon fiber when it comes to providing you with comfort of ride as well as solid power delivery between the foot and the pedals and right onto the wheels. You will find that aluminum is going to be slightly stiffer, and in theory this is going to offer a much more responsive feel when it comes to pedaling as well as handling, but there is a downside: There is less shock absorbing power coming from the frame when you are on a rough road, and there are plenty of rough roads involved in triathlon bicycling.
Steel is generally perceived to be the original standby, but steel is most often heavier than carbon fiber, aluminum and titanium. Still, with steel you will generally be looking at a much more palatable price. If you are going to attempt a much longer race, then you should be thinking about shock absorbing capabilities. If you only plan on doing short jaunts, then you might actually want to consider the tighter feel that aluminum and steel afford you. Even at its very worst, aluminum is more than capable of being an excellent bicycle material, so don’t discount it.
Next you are going to want to consider the fit, as this is really the most vitally important aspect of choosing your bike. The bike that you choose absolutely has to be able to fit your body. Some frames come like running shorts, in small size, medium size and large size, but these are extremely limited selections and they are not going to fit people that are long and lean or that have long and lean legs. At this point, it truly becomes a matter of choosing and relying on the right bicycle specialist to help you find a frame size and shape that is going to give you the characteristics that you need to meet your triathlon goals while not surpassing your budget.
Photo credits: KevinSaunders
Originally posted 2009-09-15 03:16:25. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
Related Posts -
Triathlon Cycling Terms Continued Pinch Flat - This is a flat tire that is caused as a result of hitting an obstacle with a lot of force to the point where the inner tube has been pinched in the rim. Pixie Gear - This is another term that refers to granny gear. Points Race...... -
More Children Bike Competitively The popularity of biking in America has meant an increase in how many children bike competitively. There has been a switch between those who bike for fun and those who are biking for a reason. This creates a unique opportunity for parents who enjoy biking and would like to share...... -
Taking Swimming for Fitness to the Next Level Swimming is one of the few sports in which the entire body gets worked out. This is why so many people are swimming for fitness. They like the idea that 30 minutes in the pool is like an hour on the track. The problem some people find in the swimming...... - Guide to Buying a Good Beginner Road Bike People every year discover a joy never realized before in riding a bicycle. What most people face is a huge dilemma when they go to buy a beginner road bike. Even talking to friends about what they recommend is enough to blow your mind. You end up with a lot......
-
Triathlon Gear If you are going to participate in a triathlon, having the best equipment is vital. Experience and endurance are important, but those will only go so far towards being at the top of your game. It will vastly depend on the athlete the sort of equipment needed, since every human......
Online Stores
December 23rd, 2011 — Clothes and Gear, Swim Bike Run, Triathlon Tips
… Continued from Attain Victory with the Right Triathlon Gear pt 1:
The seat tubes have steeper angles and they allow for more of the leg muscles to be contributing to the pedaling force. Since more body muscles are being engaged, there is less strain being placed on each individual muscle, which gives you a much greater balance of the energy reserves when you transition from biking into running.
Sadly, there are also triathlon athletes that are not using these specific bikes, and they are putting themselves at an enormous disadvantage as a result. This is because most if not all of their pedaling power is coming from only a few of the muscles in their legs, and this is resulting in a much quicker loss of their vital energies. When you are an athlete, it is easy for you to see that science is capable of being a friend to you. In order for you to pick out the best of the best when it comes to triathlon gear, you need to be able to set your mind on a budget that is going to allow you to be competitive in not one but all three of the legs of this race. You should not, then, only be spending your money on a top of the line triathlon designed bike only to fail in the other aspects of the competition for example.
Sure, it may do you well to have a top of the line bike for the triathlon portion of the race, but a cheaper and better rounded bicycle may achieve the same. Who cares if your bike isn’t as sexy as a Ferrari, what you really need for it to do is get you through the race, getting the job done and keeping you in good shape along the way.
By budgeting a little less for your triathlon bicycle, you can spend more money on your shoes, your wet suit and any other items that you need for the entirety of this three leg race. You are going to need good goggles and a good wet suit if you want to do well in the swimming portion of the race and you are going to need good running shoes and comfortable running clothes if you want to run well. As a general rule, you should be investing in all of these things, rather than scrimping in one part of your gear and spending too much in another. It is definitely going to be a good idea for you to save up to make sure that you buy the right gear, because having the right gear can really make or break your ability to succeed in any triathlon competition. If you want to improve your training and improve your actual competition as a result, then choose the right gear and invest in the right things right off the bat.
Photo Credits: Diamondduste
Originally posted 2009-08-28 03:37:11. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
Related Posts -
Swimming for a Triathlon Here are some tips for any triathlete when it comes to training and then racing in the swimming leg for any triathlon competition. The first leg for any triathlon is going to be the wettest one, and yet it should be the one that is the most relaxed and the...... -
Training Tips For Upcoming Biking Season With summer just a short time a way, many people are dusting off their bikes and preparing to get back out on the bike trails as well as prepare for the various bike races that will be all over the country. Though some more hardcore bikers never put their bike...... - More Children Bike Competitively The popularity of biking in America has meant an increase in how many children bike competitively. There has been a switch between those who bike for fun and those who are biking for a reason. This creates a unique opportunity for parents who enjoy biking and would like to share......
-
Running in a Triathlon Triathletes have a bigger challenge than just the cyclist, the swimmer or the runner since they have to compete in all three sports consecutively. Very often, an athlete will excel at one or two parts of the competition but have room for improvement in the third, and this will very...... -
Triathlon Tips Which Really Work Competing in a triathlon is one of the most challenging experiences you can hope for. This is why so many people look for good triathlon tips. This is because while many will be happy just to finish, others would like to move up in the rankings as they compete in......
Online Stores
December 4th, 2011 — Biking, Swim Bike Run
Bicycling is something which has been growing in popularity lately. Many people have been taking to the sport purely for race biking. This has been fueled by a higher interest in such televised races as the Tour de France. Many people have found an interest in how the sport has changed over the years. This includes the science behind the bicycles, the clothing which is worn and the fuel which is used to power the cyclists.
The First Races
It was not a long time after the invention of the bicycle that race biking was invented. This seems to be a natural progression seen most anywhere. These first races were competitions between cyclists to see who could cover a preset course spanning from one city to another. They started in the mid to late 1800’s. These are the races which have grown into such races as the Tour de France as well as races in Italy and Germany. The races which have gained recognition include ones which are on American soil as well. Every country has been responsible for creating some of the best cyclists the world has ever seen.
The Science of the Bicycle
The first bicycles used for race biking were nothing more than conversions of the standard bicycle. They used steel frames and thick rubber wheels. Everything about the bike was heavy right down to the chains which were used. Nothing about the bicycle was comfortable at this point and there were not as many gears being used for such things as climbs. Over the years, lighter and more durable metals have been found to build bikes from. There has also been a switch in the effectiveness of the brakes and the contours of the frame itself.
Even the handlebars have undergone a complete revolution. The original handlebars used for race biking were little different from the regular handlebars. The shape eventually included an extension which rolled under. This allowed the cyclist to grab lower and create a more aerodynamic shape. The handlebars which are used today even include a brace which can be used for resting the forearm and elbows while racing. This allows you to have good aerodynamics while taking pressure off of the back muscles. The rider uses skeletal support to ride the bike and be in greater comfort for a longer period of time.
Better Fuel for Greater Performance
Outside of the bike itself, the fuel which is involved in race biking has undergone many changes. It used to be the only thing racers would bring along with them was good old water. These days there are formulas which will replace enzymes lost during the race. You can even stow away packs which will give you carbs and food replacement for long term races. The one thing which has not changed here is the use of water to hydrate. Water has still been found to be the best way to keep your body going even after you have been racing for hours on end.
Photo Credits: mikebaird
Originally posted 2010-03-28 10:59:48. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
Related Posts -
Triathlon Terms Here is a brief glossary of terms used in triathlon training and triathlon racing. 70.3 - This term is used to describe a Half Ironman race distance, which is a 1.2 mile swim, a 56 mile bike an 13.1 mile run. 140.6 - This term is used to describe an...... -
Cycling Glossary Continued Handicap - Handicap races are quite popular in Australia, in them, the racers start at different points on the track based on their performance. âScratch Menâ are the fastest of the riders, and start at the traditional starting line and âout markersâ are the rest of the riders and depending...... - Take the Biking Trip You Will Always Remember One thing many people look forward to every year is a good bike trip. There are others who have yet to take a trip of this nature. The good news is there are so many destinations for the cyclist you can always find a fun and challenging location to travel......
-
Preparing For your Triathlon With the Right Gear Most people who are facing the concept of their first triathlon are wondering what type of gear and equipment will best suit them. Depending on your skill level, your budget and what equipment you currently own, your needs for the right gear will certainly be difficult. Assuming that budget is...... -
First Triathlon Fashion for Women Dressing for your first triathlon can be a challenge. It's easy enough to dress to go running, but you'll be cycling and swimming, too, so do you choose one outfit for all three races, or change each time? The time you take between events counts toward your overall time so......
Online Stores
November 27th, 2011 — Biking, Clothes and Gear, Swim Bike Run
People every year discover a joy never realized before in riding a bicycle. What most people face is a huge dilemma when they go to buy a beginner road bike. Even talking to friends about what they recommend is enough to blow your mind. You end up with a lot of information which does not make any sense to you. What you find out later is there are many different aspects of a bike which make it better suited to one person than another. You have to find what your own personal preferences are.
Starting Off With a Used Bike
Getting you on the road with a beginner bike is the most important thing. Good advice here is to buy one from a bike club, bike shop or the Salvation Army. Before you buy the bike, make sure you get measured to find out what size bike is best for you. You can then buy an inexpensive bike which is well suited to your needs. Make sure to have the bike checked for a tune up by your local bike shop before you hit the road. You should be able to get on the road for less than $100.
Take Some Bicycling Classes
If you live in or near a major city, there is most likely a few different cycling clubs you can join. Joining the club will help you to get lessons on how to more effectively ride your new beginner road bike. As you learn, you will learn all the different features which your bike has and how they help you to ride better. You will also learn which elements you would like to improve about your own ride. Once you have learned the range which your bike is capable of, you will be ready to make a better decision on the bike you will buy.
Pricing a New Bike
Armed with knowledge about what you really want in a good beginner road bike, you are ready to make your first real purchase. You can approach the different bikes available to you with more confidence. While price should not usually be a deciding factor in which bike you will buy, it should be for your first new bike. This is because while you have more information than an absolute newbie, you are still pretty fresh on the scene. Buy a good bike in the thousand dollar range and after a couple years, you will know exactly what $5000 bike you want to buy.
Stepping up to a Triathlon Bike
Many people buying a beginner road bike want it for triathlons. The beginner bike is still a good idea as you get used to riding the bike. You can even complete your first triathlon with a beginner bike. As your skills progress, you will find more benefit in buying a triathlon bike. You will find you are able to run better after the bike portion. You will also find you are able to have less impact on your back muscles. Just make sure you take steps instead of making a blind leap.
Photo Credits: jim212jim
Originally posted 2010-03-30 10:09:50. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
Related Posts - Take the Biking Trip You Will Always Remember One thing many people look forward to every year is a good bike trip. There are others who have yet to take a trip of this nature. The good news is there are so many destinations for the cyclist you can always find a fun and challenging location to travel......
- First Triathlon Fashion for Women Dressing for your first triathlon can be a challenge. It's easy enough to dress to go running, but you'll be cycling and swimming, too, so do you choose one outfit for all three races, or change each time? The time you take between events counts toward your overall time so......
- Taking Swimming for Fitness to the Next Level Swimming is one of the few sports in which the entire body gets worked out. This is why so many people are swimming for fitness. They like the idea that 30 minutes in the pool is like an hour on the track. The problem some people find in the swimming......
- More Children Bike Competitively The popularity of biking in America has meant an increase in how many children bike competitively. There has been a switch between those who bike for fun and those who are biking for a reason. This creates a unique opportunity for parents who enjoy biking and would like to share......
- Cycling Glossary Continued Handicap - Handicap races are quite popular in Australia, in them, the racers start at different points on the track based on their performance. âScratch Menâ are the fastest of the riders, and start at the traditional starting line and âout markersâ are the rest of the riders and depending......
Online Stores
November 10th, 2011 — Biking, Swim Bike Run
The bicycle rides you choose will depend on how you will be using them. When you are talking about rides, you are talking about your bike. Something people are not aware of when they first buy a bike is that there are different rides they can choose from. You can choose one which is designed for the road, for a triathlon and for mountain biking. It is a good idea to make sure the ride you choose is designed just for what you will be using it for. This is because you will find superior comfort as well as superior performance.
The Female Bike
While it is possible to buy bicycle rides which are unisex, it is a better idea for women to buy bikes which are designed just for women. This is because the frame is designed to meet the needs which are specific to women. The seat tube will be at a sharper angle to the ground in order to accommodate the longer legs women typically have. The top tube will also be shorter to accommodate the shorter torso most women have. You will even find shorter cranks to avoid your foot running into the wheel.
The Street Bike
This is the lightest of all the bicycle rides on the market. This is because you will not need a lot of reinforcement for the ride ahead of you. You will be on smooth surfaces with varying slopes. You will need the lighter bike so your energy will be directly translated into forward momentum. The street bike is also designed to give you options between riding upright and hunching down to get more aerodynamics. You should make sure the bike you choose is designed for your height. Ask a good bike shop to measure you for the right size bike.
The Triathlon Bike
The bicycle rides used for triathlons are different from the average street bike. While it is possible to ride a street bike in your first triathlon, it is not recommended as you reach higher levels of performance. This is because the triathlon bike will actually help you to be ready for the running portion of the race. The handlebars which are used by the triathlon bike will force your body to use skeletal support rather than muscular support to create an aerodynamic posture. This will make it where your back will not be tired as soon as you start running,
The Mountain Bike
The first difference you will notice in bicycle rides designed for mountain biking is their heavy reinforcements. You will also notice the shocks which are on the front and rear forks. This is important to allow you to go over the roughest terrains without causing any damage to yourself or your ride. You will also notice a difference in the gears which are used and the way in which you shift gears. Another main difference is in the handlebars and the wheels which are used. This provides you with a ride designed for abuse.
Photo Credits: Thorne Enterprises
Originally posted 2010-03-12 03:09:01. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
Related Posts - More Children Bike Competitively The popularity of biking in America has meant an increase in how many children bike competitively. There has been a switch between those who bike for fun and those who are biking for a reason. This creates a unique opportunity for parents who enjoy biking and would like to share......
-
Triathlon Cycling Terms Continued Here is the final installation of our glossary of triathlon cycling terms and definitions. Team Pursuit - This is a type of race that is similar in nature to the individual pursuit style of racing, however instead there are two different teams, each of which is made up of four...... -
Gear Up for your First Triathlon When it comes to packing in preparation for your triathlon race, it is best for you to break all of your necessities down into four different categories. This way, you can focus on each of the categories one at a time. One example of breaking your categories down is to...... -
Womens Bicycles Too many people think about the design which was made popular in the 1800âs for womens bicycles. These had a low sweeping top tube to accommodate a dress. These days there is no longer a need for the low top tube. There is however, still a need for a different...... -
Choosing the Right Triathlon Bike pt 2 You are really going to want to choose a bicycle that fits your body perfectly, comfortable, and also fits your budget. You can buy an extremely expensive bike, but if it does not fit your frame, then it is completely worthless when it comes to meeting your bicycling needs. The......
Online Stores