New Bike
I have a Trek 1000 that is probably 6 years old. Hubby really feels I need to get a new bike for the summer's training and then IM Wisc. I like my bike and feel comfortable on it but it is not a carbon bike. How do I even start figuring out what I will be comfortable with? I have been to a few stores and looked online but I just feel overwhelmed by all the companies and choices out there. I think I want a road bike as I feel I will get more use out of it then a tri-bike but other then that I feel like deer in headlights. Any suggestions or advice to get me started? Thanks!
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I think your husband should call mine and tell him how happy I would be if he would embrace MY wish for a new bike! I love my Trek Madone 3.1 but it's THREE years OLD!
Just kidding. If you love your bike, then... well, get another Trek. So many really nice models. Do you use aero bars at all?
Decision road vs tri bike should revolve around your intentions. If triathlon is a fling for you, if you intend your Ironman career to be one-and-done, then a road bike is probably a better idea. But if you see triathlon as a long-term commitment, as a life-style choice for you, then, please, get a tri bike. The geometry is designed to actually make long distance riding in one position for long stretches easier and more comfortable, and to allow for better running afterwards. Myself, my arms start getting really tired/sore/crampy on a road bike after 2-3 hours of NON STOP riding; 6 hours is impossible. But on my tri bike, where I'm simply resting my elbows, I have no such issues. To say nothing of the FREE SPEED one gets from riding in a more aerodynamic position, usually good for 1-2 mph, which adds up over 112 miles.
In relation to the 'need' for a carbon frame vs alloy, my 2006 'Old School' Cervelo P3 has an alloy frame (but the forks are carbon) and I am very happy with it.
I am currently in an IM race prep stage and ride on chip-seal a far bit without any issues. I weigh 145 and keep my tyres around 105 psi and use latex tubes which smoothens out the ride quality. BTW, my IM (IM Australia) is on terrible quality roads so I am getting used to that.
IMO, carbon frames are not really necessary for comfort provided you are not a big guy.
1. Do YOU want a new bike? That seems to be the most important question. I'm sure your hubby has your best interests at heart, but I think the decision on whether you NEED a new bike is up to you...
2. That being said, I have two bikes. My first one is ten year old aluminum road bike that is my training / everyday beast that has seen me through 3 years of road racing, a 70.3 and 140.6 distance races with no problems. It is what I rode this morning and will ride until about 14 weeks out from my race. My other is the coolio - carbon flashy bling baby tri-bike that I unwrap only in times of great need. Bottom line, the tri-bike is faster, sexier, more comfortable flash ride, but either will answer the mail.
Get what YOU want and enjoy the ride. If you do go for a tri-bike, I recommend going BEFORE you get one to a professional fitter (that specializes in tri fits and does not work for a store) that will take your measurements and then provide the bikes that 'best' fit your body style. Its important to find one that is not affiliated with a particular store or brand.
What ever you do, pics or you didn't get it!
I just sent him some videos of me on my TT bike set up on a Trainer and he sent back the advice, rinse, lather, and repeat, until both of you are satisfied.
He can also give advice about the type of bike that would fit you best.
When I used him EN got a discount.
Also, he doesn't charge if he can't improve the fit.
Our sponsor at InsideOut sports usually sells these...FWIW....