In triathlon, accessories define the line between good performance and excellent performance. This is even more true in cycling, which is the discipline that requires the greatest investment and the adoption of more sophisticated technology.
In fact, physical training is fundamental: you must be ready to run, to pedal hard in speed races and endurance races, to challenge yourself first and foremost.
However, if you have the right triathlon bike accessories:
- you don't lose a single watt of energy;
- increases stability and aerodynamics;
- work in as functional a position as possible.
The best components help you achieve better results , allowing you to compete in excellent races, where all the effort put into training sessions is finally rewarded.
The 4 triathlon bike accessories you absolutely must have
What bike accessories can push you beyond your limits during the race?
Those that increase safety, quick transitions, and speed while racing . The goal is to maximize effort and performance so as not to lose a single watt with every pedal stroke.
These are the four accessories that cannot be missing from a triathlon bike when you want to achieve excellent performance:
- Pedals with toe clips for clipless shoes or with quick release clips for triathlon cycling shoes (this allows you to switch from swimming to biking in seconds, without putting on socks and shoes);
- An approved helmet , to protect you from the risk of falls and compete safely, always aiming for the best performance. For example, you can choose teardrop helmets that are extremely aerodynamic;
- High profile or medium profile wheels , to modulate speed and stability while pedaling;
- The handlebars or bends , to adapt the posture obtaining the maximum in aerodynamics and ergonomics.
Among these, the wheels and handlebars deserve a special mention because they are technologically advanced components, which significantly affect the quality of a triathlon bike.
In triathlon, accessories and technology run side by side
The wheel was invented over 7,000 years ago and changed the course of human history. The truly remarkable thing is that since then, this simple and intuitive component has undergone almost continuous technological advancements , adapting to every means of transportation.
The same goes for bicycle wheels, which today are hyper-specialized for each use and each sporting discipline. Could triathlon be an exception? Not at all.
Wheels aren't just triathlon bike accessories; they're the bike component that can change the outcome of a race more than any other. They're also the link between your muscles and the road. That's why you shouldn't choose them randomly.
We often fall into the trap of thinking that for every triathlon race, the best choice is always a high-profile wheel with a lightweight carbon structure. This isn't the case.
They're undoubtedly perfect for long distances, allowing you to maintain speed without losing sight of your opponents, staying in the pack, and perhaps ready for a sprint. If you were to participate in an Iron Man, for example, we'd have no hesitation in recommending them.
But when it's windy or on rough roads, high-profile wheels can be unstable and controlling the bike becomes more difficult.
In these cases and for shorter distances we can prefer wheels with a medium profile, because they represent a good compromise between stability and aerodynamics.
We've already talked about how to choose wheels for a triathlon bike on our blog: why not check out that article?
Even when choosing the same type of wheel, it's the quality of the wheel that radically changes the race. Athletes who use the most technologically advanced wheels, designed to cut through the air and remain stable without wasting energy, are easily recognizable during a competition.
Handlebars push the Triathlon bike to the max
Even the handlebars are a seemingly banal element, almost ancient, which however requires an enormous effort in terms of design and technological production , to obtain a bend that pushes the bike to the maximum.
If the wheels are your point of contact with the road, the handlebars are the triathlon bike accessories that allow you to cut through the air with every pedal stroke.
In fact, a racing handlebar - on which further extensions can be mounted - forces you to adopt a position that cuts through the air and minimizes drag, while also easing the load on your back.
Even in this case, only quality components, designed and manufactured down to the last detail , allow you to find the right compromise between performance and the safest movement for your physiological structure.
