Road Bike Time Trial: Can Your Everyday Ride Compete?
So you’re thinking about giving time trials a go? That’s awesome! But before you start, you might be wondering if you can use your trusty road bike, or do you need to purchase a fancy time trial (TT) bike?
The good news is, yes you absolutely can tackle a time trial on your road bike, especially if you’re new to racing or its casual event. But there are a few things to keep in mind to make sure your first experience is a positive one.
The Aerodynamic Struggle
Let's face it, road bikes aren't exactly built to cheat the wind. TT bikes, on the other hand, are all about slicing through the air with features like stretched-out frames, special handlebars, and high profile wheels. While your road bike can still be pretty aerodynamic, it might not be quite as efficient as a dedicated TT machine.
Finding Your Perfect Position
TT bikes put you in a more aggressive, leaned-forward posture that helps you cut through the air and put the power down. You can get close to this on a road bike by adjusting your saddle and handlebar height, but it might not be as comfy for those longer distances.
Gearing Up for Speed
Time trial bikes often come with specialized equipment like clip-on aero bars, disc wheels, and specially designed frames. While you can upgrade your road bike with some of these features, it can get a bit pricey and require some bike adjustments.
Rules of the Ride
Before you race off, make sure you check the event rules. Some races might require traditional road bikes, while others might allow TT bikes or have restrictions on modifications to your road bike.
Road Bike vs. TT Bike: The Final Lap
So, road bike or TT bike? Ultimately, it depends on your goals. If you're serious about time trialling and want every edge you can get, a TT bike might be worth the investment. But for casual riders or those just starting out, a road bike can be a great way to experience the thrill of a time trial without breaking the bank.
Whilst we don’t have any TT bikes on our website, we can help you out with a TT Suit - head to our website, www.procyclingoutlet.com and peruse the selection.
