What is the Difference Between Triathlon Bike and Road Bike

The main difference between triathlon bike and road bike is that triathlon bikes are perfect for shorter distances while road bikes are suitable for longer distances.

Triathlon bikes and road bikes are two types of bikes that have a greater speed than other regular bikes. However, there is a distinct difference between triathlon bike and road bike, mainly based on their design.  A triathlon bike has a greater seat tube angle than a road bike, but road bikes are more comfortable than triathlon bikes.

Key Areas Covered

1. What is a Triathlon Bike
     – Definition, Design, Features
2. What is a Road Bike
     – Definition, Design, Features
3. What is the Difference Between Triathlon Bike and Road Bike
    – Comparison of Key Differences

Key Terms

Triathlon Bike, Road Bike

What is a Triathlon Bike

As its name suggests, a triathlon bike is a bike associated with the cycling event of a triathlon. These bikes are specially designed for shorter distances. These are built for riding in flat terrains, so they may not be a good choice for mountainous regions.

When compared to a road bike, a triathlon bike has a greater seat tube angle (76 to 78 degrees). This angle can create a much more “aero” position. Moreover, this design creates a more aggressive riding position. The bullhorn-style bars also allow the rider to rest elbows on the handlebar and lower the head and body into an aerodynamic position. Overall, the design of the bike facilitates an easy transition from cycling to running.

What is a Road Bike

A road bike is a bike for use on paved roads. Road bikes are ideal for long distances and are made with the comfort of the rider on the mind. They are also lighter than bikes for leisurely rides or mountain bikes. Although they are faster than regular bikes, triathlon bikes are faster than road bikes. However, they are not as expensive as triathlon bikes.

When considering the design of road bikes, their frames are usually carbon or aluminium. Moreover, forks of expensive road bikes are made from carbon while less expensive versions use a mixture of carbon and aluminium or only steel or aluminium. In addition to that, these bikes have a short seat post, flat top-tube, and a lighter frame. Also, they have lighter rims and fewer spokes in comparison to mountain bikes. Their tires are narrow, high-pressure, and smooth, which decreases rolling resistance. Another notable feature of road bikes is bent handlebars. This allows the rider position to lean forward and downward, reducing the air resistance.

Difference Between Triathlon Bike and Road Bike

Definition

A triathlon bike is a bike associated with the cycling event of a triathlon while a road bike is a bike for use on paved roads.

Speed

Triathlon bikes are faster than road bikes.

Weight

Moreover, triathlon bikes are usually heavier than road bikes.

Distance

While triathlon bikes are suitable for shorter distances, road bikes are suitable for longer distances.

Comfort

In addition, triathlon bikes are not as comfortable as road bikes.

Seat Tube Angle

A triathlon bike has a greater seat tube angle (76 to 78 degrees) than road bike (usually 72 degrees).

Price

Triathlon bikes are more expensive than road bikes.

Terrain

Triathlon bikes are built for riding on flat terrains while road bikes can be used for flat terrains as well as mountainous terrains.

Versatility

Furthermore, triathlon bikes are not as versatile as road bikes.

Conclusion

There is a distinct difference between triathlon bike and road bike based on their design and features. Triathlon bikes are faster, ideal for shorter distances while road bikes are more comfortable and ideal for longer distances.

Reference:

Loveridge, Matthew. “What Is a Road Bike? The Basics Explained.” BikeRadar, 1 May 2020, Available here.

Image Courtesy:

1. “UK Ironman 2015 competitor – cycling” By Francis Franklin – Own work (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Commons Wikimedia
2. “2630335” (CC0) via Pixabay