Try-ath-lon bike
Noun
A type of bicycle used for multi-sport events such as triathlons
Example usage: I use a triathlon bike for my long distance races.
Most used in: Long distance races, especially triathlons.
Most used by: Athletes participating in long distance races, such as triathlons.
Popularity: 8/10
Comedy Value: 3/10
Also see: Time Trial Bike, Aero Bike, TT Bike, Tri Bike,
What is a Triathlon Bike?
A triathlon bike is a type of bicycle specifically designed for the sport of triathlon. It is optimized for speed and aerodynamic performance, allowing athletes to move quickly and efficiently over long distances. Unlike road bikes, which are designed for comfort and stability, triathlon bikes are designed for speed and power.
Triathlon bikes are typically made from lightweight materials such as carbon fiber and titanium, and they often feature aero-bars which allow athletes to adopt an aerodynamic position while riding. The frames are often designed with a steeper seat tube angle and shorter wheelbase for improved power transfer and stability.
Triathlon bikes are becoming increasingly popular amongst cyclists, with a recent survey revealing that nearly one-third of all cyclists own a triathlon bike. The survey further revealed that the majority of triathlon bike owners are aged 18-34 and more than 70% are male.
Triathlon bikes allow athletes to make the most of their performance in triathlons and other endurance events. With the right setup, they can help athletes shave seconds off their times, giving them an edge over their competitors.
The Origin of the Term “Triathlon Bike”
The term “Triathlon Bike” was first used in the early 1980s in the United States. It was coined to refer to a bicycle specifically designed for the Ironman Triathlon, a long-distance triathlon race held in Hawaii since 1978. The Ironman Triathlon is a grueling race that requires athletes to swim 2.4 miles, bike 112 miles, and run 26.2 miles.
The original triathlon bikes were designed to be lightweight and aerodynamic, with a frame geometry that allowed for an aggressive riding position. They had drop handlebars with multiple hand positions, and the frame was designed for maximum speed and efficiency. The original triathlon bikes were not designed for comfort, but instead for maximum power and speed, and they became known as “time trial” bikes.
Today, the term “triathlon bike” is commonly used to refer to any bike designed for long-distance triathlons, including both road and mountain bikes. While the original triathlon bikes were designed with performance in mind, modern triathlon bikes are designed to be comfortable and efficient, allowing athletes to ride for hours without becoming fatigued.