Renting a bike?

It depends on where you live. I know a shop in Tampa, FL (Lou's bikes) that will rent racing bikes. But it's tough, since racing bikes are also expensive bikes.

Personally, I would love to start a business renting top-quality bikes at triathlons. Send in measurements from your own bike, and it'd be fitted and waiting. After my recent adventures travelling with my bike (see the bike transport thread: http://www.beginnertriathlete.com/discussion/forums/thread-view.asp... I'd much rather rent a bike on site. Heck, it costs anywhere from $80 to $200 to travel with a bike. I think I'd much rather spend $100 for a good rental, and avoid the hassels.

Sorry for the tangent.

What race are you doing? Where? Where do you live? The race should have an associated LBS, which may be able to help you out.