Subject: RE: Best value in buying speed... I had to say that the simple act of buying a decent road bike makes a big difference. I watched hundreds of women struggle with their mountain or hybrid bikes last month in my first race (a duathlon ). I had spent about $800 on a new Trek 1000 - the lowest of the models - and was at an extreme advantage. At the beginning of this season I was riding a hybrid and struggled with an average 14 mph speed. NOw I pump out an effortless 17 mph average, and faster if I try. And it's not increased fitness contributing much to the gain. If I get on my old hybrid, it's still a "drag".
But hands down, the best money I have spent is on my $60 clip-on cheapie aerobars. Not to mention a more comfortable ride. I love those things! On smooth flats I can get about 3 mph faster, easily. It's increased my overall average quite a bit.
By the way, no it's NOT a no-brainer to leave the gloves at home on race day. We're BEGINNER triathletes, people. |