Our Guide to Tri Bars
Tri bars will allow you to get more aerodynamic on the bike and
sit very slightly further forward. The advantage is that you use
your quads more on the ride and can then run faster with fresher
hamstrings. To benefit fully from the latter, you will need a
steep angled tri bike.
Improved Aerodynamics
Although aerodynamics only fully come in to play at speeds of
25mph and above, you will certainly get some benefit from a set of
tri bars, even if riding much slower. Certainly, if you are
cycling in to a head wind then they will make a significant
difference to a beginner.
Clip on Bars
If you are a beginner, make sure you are comfortable on the
bike before you get tri bars. All you need are a basic set of clip
on bars that can be attached to your road handlebars. This enables
you to keep your normal setup, which is generally more stable and
safer.
All in One Tri Bars
If you are progressing well in triathlon then either get some
lighter, carbon clip on bars or go for the all in one carbon tri
bars. All in one bars are certainly the best choice for flat
courses, as they offer the least resistance. You can also attach
your gear levers to the ends of these so that you never have to
leave the aero position.
Finally, it’s worth noting that if you are ever doing a
drafting race then you will need to have very short mini clip on
bars, as longer bars are illegal.
