Nothing is more exciting than getting a new bicycle. There are many choices, and even more add-ons for each of those choices. One basic tip is to buy a bike that fits your body and your budget. A $5000 dollar bike is no better than a $500 dollar bike if the owner does not take it out of the garage.

First, decide if you will be using the bike off-trail in the mountains, joining the local bike club, training with triathletes, or just going for leisure rides. We will discuss some options for exercise bikes to be used for training on the road or in triathlons. If you only have one bike, it is best to make it a road bike that you can modify for a triathlon. A triathlon bike is difficult to ride in a group and not nearly as comfortable as some other types. Do not worry too much about brand names, just focus on how well the bike feels when you take it for a test ride. Most bike shops will be able to make recommendations based on your size, experience, and expected rides. Bikes may come fully built, and ready to ride out of the shop, or you may get to pick different components to fit your needs and your finances.
 
Frame composition will be your first choice; among the most popular are steel, aluminum, carbon fiber, or some combination of these. Steel bikes are very durable, reliable, and affordable, but they are heavy. Steel has quite a bit of responsiveness and absorbs a lot of shock. Aluminum is the most popular frame and provides a quality ride that is very responsive when the pedals are pressed down. It can also range from inexpensive to a “higher end” price. Carbon fiber is very light and responsive but is the most expensive. It is typically found on higher end bikes, but not every rider likes the feel of the bike when they ride it.

Some manufacturers combine the components for different parts of the bike and to provide optimum performance from each of the materials.  
After the frame and fork, the biggest decision that can be made to affect the weight and quality of the ride are the wheels. The wheels may also be made of varying metal composites, and they can come in different rim depths and number of spokes. A great amount of weight can be saved by selecting a light set of wheels. Some wheels can be custom made to better fit the rider's style.
 
Smaller choices, such as seats, handle bars, and pedals can help eliminate weight and improve comfort, but they can also quickly increase the price tag. My friend has a theory that you should not skimp on anything that connects you and the bike. In other words, spend extra money on a comfortable seat, and worry less about carbon fiber water bottle cages. Buy a nice pair of riding shorts, not a new seat post. Gears, shifters and brake components are also an important part of the bike. These can range in price from under $100 to several thousand dollars; they may make a difference in shifting smoothness as the rider develops their skill.
 
Before you invest $7000 on a bike with custom paint, special wheels, and the latest GPS/power meter, make sure you enjoy the sport and that you have the time to ride.  

 Manny Escalante, Jr. MA, ATC, CPT has a Master's Degree in Sports Medicine,
Certified Athletic Trainer, and Certified Personal Trainer.
Competed in bodybuilding and a 3 time Ironman Triathlon Finisher