Participating in a triathlon is an exciting way to test your endurance. You need to have the mental pressure and fitness levels required to complete the race, however. Getting the right road bike for a triathlon is also essential.
A triathlon road bike can make the process of finishing a race enjoyable as it’s simple to steer, easier to maintain, and lightweight. Whether you’re going for long slogs over hours or a short sprint for some minutes, the right road bike can perform well over several surfaces.
Our detailed guide lists some of the essential things you need to consider when selecting the best road bike for a triathlon. We also list some top recommendations based on our research findings.
Top 10 Best Road Bikes for Triathlon Beginners
Some of the road bikes to consider include:
1. Eagle T Series Carbon Fiber Triathlon Bike
The Eagle T Series Carbon Fiber Triathlon Bike boasts excellent stability and comfort, with lots of features that you’ll love as a triathlete.
It’s lightweight to increase your comfort during rides. The manufacturer also includes vibration dampening, which reduces all forms of vibration for extra comfort.
Finding a bike that can handle different terrain is never easy, but with the Eagle T Series bike, you can enjoy the comfort of racing in any terrain as it comes equipped with electronic shifters.
Other impressive features include the carbon handlebars, Shimano derailleur, and carbon wheels for extra strength and unmatched performance.
Triathletes between 5’2″ and 6’4″ will find this triathlon bike a great fit. The best part is that you can use this triathlon bike for everyday use apart from the races.
Pros
- Works for different riding styles
- Has an adjustable seat for extra comfort
- Can be used for both recreational and racing needs
Cons
- Some users found that the bike needs extra strength to pedal
- Has some delicate parts
2. Hiland Aluminum Road Bike
- Durable Bike Design: Durable Hi-Ten steel frame and fork provide a more comfortable riding experience; Twin aluminium rims and 700*25C road tyres reduce wear and tear
- Shift Gears Smoothly: 14-speed drivetrain with brake lever for fast gear changes; Double-walled aluminium rims provide strong traction so you can easily adapt to the terrain
- Precision Speed Control: Front and rear caliper brakes provide superior stopping power and speed control so you can ride with confidence in a variety of conditions
As a beginner triathlete, finding a bike that is affordable and will help you improve your speed is critical. The Hiland Aluminum Road Bike is a perfect choice for anyone looking for a budget-friendly bicycle that doesn’t sacrifice comfort.
You don’t have to worry about wobbling all over, as the Hiland bike provides incredible stability whether you’re training for a triathlon or participating in one.
The lightweight aluminum alloy frame makes this bike a pleasure to take on leisurely rides with the family or through the course on race day.
This bike features a Shimano 21-speed shifting system that is smooth and geared to handle race conditions on varied terrains, which the wider, 28C tires handle easily.
Long-distance triathlons can be demanding, and the Hiland Aluminum Road Bike is available in two sizes to accommodate riders of varying heights. Easy effort disc brakes round out this great package.
Quick assembly out of the box means you will be hitting the roads to train in no time!
Pros
- Two frame sizes to accommodate taller riders
- Features lightweight aluminum alloy frame
- Comfortable to ride over long distances
- 28C tires handle some gravel well
Cons
- No kickstand included
3. Eurobike EURXC550 Road Bike
- Disc Brake System – Provides long lasting and stronger fasting stopping power than the traditional V-Brake Systems.
- Top of the line Components – Includes Shimano products that are known to last including derailleurs and shifters.
- Aluminum fashion rims and perfect design.
- Recommended for rider’s height 5’3″-5’9″. Max weight up to 300lbs
- Multiple choices give you a colorful ride experience
Featuring an intelligent and modern design, the Eurobike EURXC550 Road Bike is a must-have for any beginner triathlete. Its 21-speed shifting system allows you to reach new speeds, while the dual disc brakes ensure you stop safely.
You’ll enjoy the stability that this bike comes with, thanks to the rigid suspension and sturdy steel frame. Tall riders can easily find their perfect position as the saddle is adjustable. Its design also supports the lower back.
Apart from being excellent for beginner triathletes, the Eurobike Road Bike works perfectly for advanced and intermediate riders. Enjoy better handling and control thanks to the iron casting racing handlebars.
Pros
- Excellent handling and control
- Comes with multiple-speed settings
- Efficient braking system
- Durable steel frame construction
Cons
- Some users felt that the bike was heavier than most road bikes
- Prone to rust if exposed to wet conditions
4. Tommaso Imola Endurance Aluminum Road Bike
- QUALITY CYCLING PRODUCTS SINCE 1985: Our Italian designed cycling shoes, bicycle, and cycling products have made riders look like pros since ’85. But we’re more than just fancy gear, we’re a community. Our cycling-crazed customer service team in Denver can help with any questions or concerns. Plus, our Lifetime Warranty Replacement Promise means you can put our gear to the test with unrelenting confidence. We hope that you will Join The Ride, for fun, fitness, and community.
- THIS IS AFFORDABLE PERFORMANCE, NOT ENTRY LEVEL: The Imola is a top-performing bike that’s not just for beginners. Starting cycling can be intimidating, but we believe that new riders deserve bikes that deliver affordable performance without compromising on quality. We recommend the Imola for new riders who are serious about their cycling goals. Unlike other so-called “beginner bikes” that are quickly outgrown, the Imola comes packed with high-quality components found on high end bikes.
The Tommaso Imola Endurance Aluminium Road Bike is a fantastic option for entry-level triathlon cyclists looking for a bike at a mid-range price.
The bike has a lightweight aluminum frame that reduces drag at high-speed rates. You’ll love the vibration dampening properties when riding the bike on different terrain.
Previous users love how comfortable the road bike can be for long-distance triathlons.
Its full Shimano R2000 Claris groupset also adds to a flawless, smooth ride. You can easily change the gears with the shifters as the brakes bring you to a stop.
You can also add fenders or mudguards, as the frame has drilling points.
Pros
- Has a comfortable riding position
- Suitable for beginner triathletes
- Lightweight aluminum frame
- Excellent braking and shifting systems
- Simple to customize
Cons
- Low-quality gears
- Fitted with cheap pedals that may need changing
- Doesn’t have aerodynamic features
5. Eurobike Road Bike XLTL-XC7000
- 【Lightweight Road Bike】- Eurobike XC7000 road bike frame material is 6061 lightweight aluminum, the net weight of the bike is about 13kg. The HYXC7000 road bike is designed to give you a fast, light road riding experience.
- 【Shimano 14-speed shifting】Bike speed can be selected according to different road conditions. Smooth speed lets you pass straights with ease while still providing plenty of power when starting the climb
- 【Arc road bike handlebars】mens road bike with Arc handlebar can greatly reduce the resistance of the riding stroke, making your riding faster and less labor-intensive. Allows you to ride like a Tour de France pro, with better leverage uphill and a more aerodynamic profile when racing or facing strong winds
If you’re looking for a road bike that also races as a tri-bike, you should get the EUROBIKE Road Bike XLTL-XC7000 Bike. With lightweight spoke wheels in a classic design and mechanical caliper brakes, the EUROBIKE is an ideal bike for any entry-level triathlete.
It also features an aluminum alloy frame that makes it lighter weight and allows you to ride smoothly on bumps, which makes it perfect for long-course racing.
Shimano A050 shifters with 14 speeds keeps you moving along on your ride, and the easy assembly out of the box gets you on the roads faster.
Overall, the EUROBIKE Road Bike XC550 is ideal for triathletes looking for a road bike with some of the latest designs, lightweight components, caliper brakes, and an affordable price.
Pros
- Aluminum crank allows for easy pedalling
- Affordable
- Offers fantastic tire clearance with direct-mount caliper breaks
- Aluminum, quick-release rims
- Shimano A050 shifting
Cons
- Only 14 speeds
- Only comes in one 54cm frame height
6. Vilano Shadow Road Bike
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Featuring a lightweight, aluminum frame, the Vilano Shadow Road Bike is one of the best value bikes for triathlon beginners. Despite having a 14-mph speed limit, the road bike has integrated shifters that enable quick shifting and braking.
The tubing is narrow, which makes the bike aerodynamic and fast. Vilano Shadow bikes also come with Shimano Tourney derailleurs and a 2X drivetrain with 14 gears, components mainly found in expensive road bikes.
Weighing under 30 pounds, the road bike is considerably lightweight, considering all the fitted components. You’ll find traditional dual-pivot type brakes. Some users found the stock brake pads to be soft, but they are replaceable.
Although the assembly of this bike is simple, it requires fine-tuning and a safety check by an experienced bike mechanic. The pedals and saddle are a bit disappointing, with some users complaining about how uncomfortable the saddle feels on long rides.
Pros
- Excellent handling on turns and descents
- Affordable price point
- Lightweight option for beginner riders
- Comes with a provision of two bottle mounts
Cons
- Some people had issues with the brakes
- A few users found the saddle uncomfortable
- There were complaints about shifting
7. Schwinn Phocus 1600 Road Bike
- Aluminum road frame paired with a carbon fiber road fork for swift and agile riding, with 700c wheels that fit to riders 5’4″ to 6’2″ height
- 16 speeds, Shimano derailleurs and intergrated Micro-shift shifter brake lever combo for precise gear shifting
- High-profile alloy double-wall rims with paired spokes are lightweight and strong with front quick release
- Promax alloy dual pivot caliper road brakes ensure precise and confident braking, delivering crisp stops
- Alloy crank for a broad gear range and road-style tread tires for fast and smooth riding, and optimal performance
Buying a road bike for a triathlon can be limiting if you’re on a budget. However, you’ll be surprised to learn that the Schwinn Phocus 1600 Men’s Road Bike is one of the most durable and most affordable bike options on the market.
It’s made from aluminum, which makes the bike a bit heavy, but durable. You’ll love the bike’s stylish yet unique black design that comes with a rigid fork for agile riding.
Another outstanding feature is the 16-speed drivetrain, which provides plenty of functionality, especially for beginners. Its caliper brakes provide exceptional stopping power, while the alloy rims with paired spokes provide a sturdy front quick-release.
Pros
- Affordable
- Durable aluminum construction
- Quality caliper brakes for stopping power
- Fitted with a 16-speed drivetrain for easier handling
Cons
- It’s unsuitable for big-bodied riders
8. Schwinn Volare Mens and Womens Hybrid Road Bike
- Quick and agile riding with the 21-inch aluminum fitness frame and rigid fork, with 700c wheels fit riders 5’4″ to 6’2″ height
- 14-speed shifter and brake lever combo provides precise shifting, you can trust for years of smooth shifting
- Road bike equipped with alloy linear pull hand brakes, ensuring superior braking performance
- Hybrid bike with drop style handlebar and sport saddle, and alloy wheels, alloy crank, alloy brakes and components
- Arrives partially assembled, will require tools, Philips head screwdriver, Allen wrench 4-8mm, adjustable wrench, pair of pliers with cable cutting ability
If you’re in the market for a racing road bike with classic Schwinn styling, you should check out the Schwinn Volare. Both the men’s and women’s models feature an aluminum frame in multiple colors.
This bike has 14 speeds and mechanical pull brakes for those who prefer a no-nonsense bicycle on race day. All parts are constructed of aluminum or alloys to reduce weight and keep motion flowing easily.
Schwinn’s lifetime warranty is, of course, valid for as long as you own the bike, and the Schwinn name provides the comfort of knowing parts and repair are easily sourced. Reinforced, oversize Schwinn tires complete the ride and keep you enjoying the race course.
Pros
- It comes pre-assembled
- 28-inch reinforced Schwinn tires
- Durable and lightweight aluminum frame
- Provides effective and smooth shifting with combo brake-shifting levers
Cons
- Simple design without modern design features
- Only 14 speeds
9. Trinx Tempo 1.0 700C Road Bike Shimano 21 Speed Racing Bicycle
The Trinx Tempo Speed Racing Bicycle is an excellent bike for beginners who can handle the 21-speed gears. It has a hydro-formed aluminum alloy frame with a steel fork that adds to the durability of the bike.
Previous users found the bike’s brakes comfortable to change with smooth shifting. The bike is also perfect for beginner cyclists that can handle the aero mode.
Other features include an alloy double-wall rim, colorful tire rims, and Winzip alloy brakes.
Pros
- Comes with rear and front suspension
- Features caliper brakes with excellent stopping power
- Durable hydro-formed aluminum alloy frame
Cons
- The bike needs assembling and may be challenging for some beginners
- Might not be suitable for people who’ve not mastered the aero mode
10. PanAme 26-Inch Road Bike for Men and Women
The PanAme is an excellent, solid triathlon bike for beginners that can double as a commuter ride.
Made from aluminum, the PanAme is light and makes sprinting and accelerating a breeze. Its design was tested in a wind tunnel to provide an aerodynamic ride and reduced drag.
This bike has quick-shifting mechanisms to keep you accelerating at crucial points in the race. The ergonomic seat is larger than more expensive models but is easy to switch out for your own comfort.
Pros
- Features a responsive and lightweight aluminum frame
- Tested design to reduce drag
- Built for speed
- Comes in multiple colors
- Easy assembly
- Men’s and women’s sizes available
Cons
- Challenges reported with customer service when requested
Comprehensive Buyer’s Guide: What Should You Look For in a Triathlon Bike?
Getting a new triathlon bike can be exciting as it gives you the motivation to train and be at your best. However, as a beginner, you may find the process of comparing the different road bikes overwhelming.
Our detailed buyer’s guide has some helpful tips on what to consider when purchasing a triathlon bike.
Check the Aerodynamics of the Bike
A good road bike for triathlon beginners needs to have the right aerodynamics.
It’s vital to select a bike with an aerodynamic riding position if you’re going for shorter and fast races. However, for high-level endurance races, you’ll need a lightweight road bike to maintain your energy and be comfortable throughout the race.
You’ll find that most bikes have an altered frame shape, while others have a dropped downtube to reduce the space between the front wheel and downtube. That improves airflow and enhances aerodynamics.
A bike with a deeper wheel profile has improved aerodynamics. Some manufacturers will also remove seat stays or include dropped seat stays to reduce drag.
Don’t Overlook Comfort
A triathlon race can go beyond 90 kilometers, and the last thing you want is to be uncomfortable throughout this solo ride.
The right road bike should be adjustable. You should be able to adjust your position without interfering with your mobility or flexibility.
Road bikes also come with different extension shapes. Some are curved, some are straight, while others point upwards.
Find a bike with your desired extension shape as this helps to keep your wrist in a neutral position. Furthermore, the right extension shape offers enough structural support for your upper body.
Triathlon-specific bikes have a shorter saddle with a cutout section at the middle. That is meant to reduce the pressure on the pelvis, as you’ll be in a bent-over position for an extended period.
Check the Frame Materials
Triathlon bikes are lightweight to help you move fast and save energy. It’s essential to check a bike’s frame material before purchasing.
Most bikes have an aluminum frame as it’s lightweight and affordable compared to other materials.
The best triathlon bikes and time-trial bikes have a carbon fiber frame. Although the material is featherlight, it’s more expensive compared to aluminum.
Titanium is an excellent option if you’re looking for a more durable and tough bike frame material. However, titanium is quite expensive and is only included in higher-end bikes.
Check the Gearing System
Triathlon road bikes can either have a mechanical or electronic gearing system.
With an electronic gearing system, you can change gears from the brake bars and TT (time-trial) extensions.
If you opt for a mechanical system, ensure the bike has a vast range of gears as this will be helpful when tackling long races.
Find Out if There are On-Board Storage Options
Triathlon road bikes are meant for long distances. Check if the bike design has compartments that can accommodate your water bottle and other useful gear.
Determine Your Riding Level
As a beginner, you need a bike that can accommodate your riding level. Most triathlon bikes for experienced triathletes are expensive.
It’s best to start with an entry-level road racing bike as it won’t be specialized like a high-end time trial or triathlon bike meant for riding at high speeds.
Have a Budget in Mind
You need to set a budget before you walk into a bike shop. Understand the available choices and determine how much you’re willing to spend.
Ensure that you include accessories in your budget. Some common accessories like spare tubes, a frame pump, patch kit, gloves, aero bars, helmets, and sunglasses can quickly spike up your budget.
Decide on the accessories you need and factor this into your budget.
Final Thoughts
Finding a reliable road bike can be challenging for any beginner triathlete. Ensure that you look out for things like the wheel size, suspension type, weight, design, speed, etc., when buying a road bike for the first time.
With our detailed buyer’s guide and some top recommendations on the best road bikes for triathlons, you’re sure to find a bike that fits your needs and budget!
Resources
- https://bikehike.org/what-is-the-best-road-bike-for-triathlon/
- https://bikesreviewed.com/road/vilano-shadow-review/
- https://trigearlab.com/tri-bikes/
- https://triathlonmagazine.ca/gear/triathlon-bike-101-a-beginners-guide-to-road-bikes/
- https://www.active.com/triathlon/articles/do-you-need-a-triathlon-bike