General Discussion Triathlon Talk » Getting used to aerobars Rss Feed  
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2009-06-20 5:02 PM

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Subject: Getting used to aerobars
Today I had fitted my first set of clip-on aerobars. I tried them for a few seconds whilst riding back from the bike shop, but immediately felt very unstable. I think I need to find a straight road with no traffic to give them a proper try.

What is the best way to get used to them? And how should you steer? I have a sprint in 2 weeks time, and I would like to be able to use them for that. Does that give me enough time?


2009-06-20 5:16 PM
in reply to: #2230966

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Extreme Veteran
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Carrollton, Virginia
Subject: RE: Getting used to aerobars
That would not have been enough time for me to DO MY BEST.  I could have certainly ridden the TT bike in that timeframe, but I was not as comfortable as I am on my roadie by then.

No need to make the decision now, ride with what you want in 2 weeks!   
2009-06-20 8:30 PM
in reply to: #2230966

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Subject: RE: Getting used to aerobars
If you need to worry about traffic, you should probably not be in your aerobars. They are for when you have an extended amount of time to relax, get into a steady groove, and go for a while without having to worry about traffic signals, stop signs, etc. I got clip-on aerobars and like them so much on my first ride, I raced in them that weekend. Find a place you can ride for a while, and see how they feel.
2009-06-20 10:12 PM
in reply to: #2230966

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Pro
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Baton Rouge area
Subject: RE: Getting used to aerobars
I got my first pair of aero bars (clip ons) in April.  Definitely find a long rode with no traffic and straight.  After that it is just time in the saddle.  At first all I could do was straight aways (a bit wobbly).  Now 18mph thru s-curves.  But  I wouldn't ride in traffic with them.
2009-06-20 11:52 PM
in reply to: #2230966

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Champion
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Knoxville area
Subject: RE: Getting used to aerobars
When I first got my tri bike, I did not feel comfortable riding on my aerobars at all. The only thing I can say is, it will become second nature, but it will take some time. I practiced riding one arm in aero, one on the bullhorn/brake for a while, that made me *feel* less anxious.

Really though, if something just pops into your way at 20+ mph, it's not going to matter if you are on your drops or aero's, you are going down. (Reassuring I know) Now I ride almost constantly on my aero's (very little time on the bullhorns, only around very tight curves and climbs)

Give it some time and don't give up. Just go at your own pace. If you aren't ready in two weeks, you aren't ready... if you are you are.

Good Luck
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General Discussion Triathlon Talk » Getting used to aerobars Rss Feed