Last week I brought home my beautiful new bike!  With tri training starting and Elkheart Lake and Steelhead Ironman approaching rapidly, I thought it was time to get a bike.

I’m no expert, but I have learned a few things to consider when making a bike purchase, especially for the newbie.

1.  Do not even thinking about getting a Tri Bike

Really, this if this is your first triathlon and Tri bikes are insanely expensive when a normal road bike will do just as well.  If you keep doing this for another year or two then think about upgrading, but right now, if the Tri thing doesn’t work out you’ll still have a bike you can ride for other things.

2.  Carbon Isn’t worth it…yet

Carbon frames are awesome, they are beautiful and they are insanely light.  That means they go really, really fast and they absorb shock.  Carbon Fiber “flexes” more as you hit bumps which means less vibrations which means its easier to ride on for long periods of time.  It costs a fortune, like you could buy 3 iPads with the cost difference.  Instead of spending all the money on carbon focus on a good quality aluminum frame and be ready to invest more on equipment.   I’m also told that by getting carbon later you’ll appreciate it more.

2.  Do consider a carbon fork

The part that connects to the front wheel can be made out of carbon fiber while the rest is aluminum.  This is a worth while upgrade because it really reduces the jolts and vibrations your shoulders will feel as you ride.

3.  If you upgrade – upgrade the gear, not the bike.

I have rode my bike for about 3 hours total so far.  I am GLAD i got the good bike shorts. – likewise spend the extra bucks on a good pair of shorts and your butt will thank you.  Same goes for shoes and helmet. Spend a hundred more if you have too to get light and comfortable shoes and helmets.  This will make much more of a difference than any other part of the bike

4.  Keep your arms bent!

Okay, not a purchasing tip but the bike shop told me this and it helps a lot.  Don’t get into the habit of ridding with locked out arms.  It causes tension in your neck and shoulders.  Keep the elbows bent to absorb vibration and shocks.  Try to keep as much weight off your hands as possible so you’re wrists don’t feel numb.

I’ll be posting a picture of my bike soon!  I am really excited to get out on the road and try the bike outside, and off of the trainer.