I purchased a road bike first. I put aero bars on it and it has worked great. I recently put a deposit down on a tri bike. I think I will really like having both bikes. For instance, this morning I road with two other guys. We drafted off each other - you can't do that with a tri bike because your hands aren't usually near your brakes. When I ride with others I only use the aero bars when I'm in front. If you go out to ride with a group of bikers they may not let you ride with them (safety) if you are on a tri bike. A road bike will be more versitile for you. Then, if you get obsessed with triathlons like I am and many people on this board are, buy a tri bike as your second bike. Or, you'll get by just fine on a road bike with aero bars.