What is a time trial bike?
Time trial bikes are made for the battle against the clock: a single rider (or a team) has to cover a given distance in the shortest possible time - the fastest rider wins. The bikes are uncompromisingly geared towards this, speed is the top priority, comfort or ease of maintenance hardly play a role. The special riding position with the forearms on the handlebars makes for unrivalled speed in competitions, but also requires experience. The brakes cannot be operated in the aerodynamic recumbent position, which is why the bikes are usually only used on closed-off racetracks. The everyday use of the bikes is therefore close to zero. Triathlon bikes form a sub-category, which are not bound by the regulations of the UCI (International Cycling Union) and can therefore have (even) more expansive frame shapes; storage boxes and hydration systems are usually included in the aero concept.
What makes the frames of time trial bikes special?
The carbon frames are optimised down to the last detail for the best aerodynamics; weight and suspension comfort are of secondary importance. Inseparably linked to the time trial bike is the characteristic recumbent handlebar, which enables a very crouched and therefore fast riding position. Due to the small quantities, there are often only three to four different sizes, which are customised with extensive adjustment options on the handlebars and saddle. Special models for triathletes, which do not have to follow the UCI regulations for frame dimensions, are rare. They often have integrated storage compartments and hydration systems that are part of the aerodynamic package. Such attachments are often also available as an option for UCI-compliant time trial bikes.
How is the driving behaviour?
Although time trial bikes are designed for good straight-line stability, the ride is still a rather wobbly affair compared to other road bikes. You need to learn how to balance on the recumbent handlebars, especially as you can't brake in this position. Switching between recumbent and basic handlebars also requires some practice.
Which tyres fit?
For aerodynamic reasons, the tyres are somewhat narrower than on a road racing bike, usually 25, rarely 28 millimetres. Special time trial tyres are available from well-known manufacturers; they are lighter and faster, but also prone to punctures and wear out quickly.
What do I need to bear in mind when translating?
As the speeds are higher, there are special time trial gradations for the road groupsets of the major manufacturers. The large cassette usually has 55 or 56 teeth; up to 60 teeth can be found as customised versions among the pros. The cassettes are closely spaced, as there is little demand for gears suitable for mountain biking.
What is the difference to a triathlon bike?
Most manufacturers only offer one model that can optionally be equipped as a triathlon racing bike. In most cases, additional storage boxes and drinking containers are provided, which are integrated into the overall aerodynamic concept. There are rarely two different models, in which case the seating position on the triathlon model is usually somewhat more comfortable.
What do time trial bikes cost?
Enormous development costs and low production volumes drive up prices. In addition, such bikes are rarely developed or equipped for hobby riders or beginners; usually only high-end versions are available. Five-figure sums are therefore the rule.
What do time trial bikes weigh?
Despite high-end equipment, triathlon and time trial bikes are comparatively heavy, with popular models weighing around nine kilograms in total. Triathlon bikes with lots of accessories can weigh up to ten kilograms.
What are typical representatives?
BMC Speedmachine: Equipped for TT & triathlon
Canyon Speedmax: Frodeno's winning machine
Scott Plasma: Designed for triathletes
Specialised Shiv TT: Purist professional time trial bike
Pinarello Bolide F: The world champion machine
Jens Klötzer
Editor
