Triathlon - First Timer

I just registered for my first triathlon on June 22nd. I consider myself to be in decent shape already and have been training pretty seriously. The training is not something I am too worried about as I believe I can achieve the levels I want to by race day. What is worrying me is not having the right equipment and not doing the best I can because of those limitations.

First off the bike I am thinking about riding is an older mountain bike style but with a completely stiff frame, no shocks, and since I am a broke college student I would not like to replace the bike entirely. So I guess my first question is could I get road tires and fit them on this frame, to help speed me up? And if so what is the likelihood that I would then be able to put the same tires on a better frame if I really enjoy the tri and want to do more, with a better bike?

My next question is about clothing for the race, will it greatly benefit me to have a wetsuit or will I get by with just triathlon shorts, once again not much money to spend to get both?

Finally, would it be worth it for me to have clipless pedals and wear bike shoes or will I be able to manage in just my running shoes?

Any help with these subjects will be greatly appreciated and I am sure I will come up with some new questions for you guys as well.

Thanks.

For what kind of tri (e.g. distances) did you register?

The event is a 800 meter swim, 12.5 mile bike, and a 3.1 mile run. Not the longest but something I feel comfortable with in my first tri.

Here's a description of the bike course:
Bike Course 12.5 miles

The bike course will begin in the main parking lot just south of the beach/transition area. The course starts by making a right out of the parking lot staying on the main and only park road-heading west. The course has a few flat sections but mainly consists of small hills and sweeping turns. Course will continue for 5.5 miles till a turn around point and aid station at Island Lake and Dodge shelter area (refer to map). Heading back athletes will go pass the beach/transition area, heading towards the Hickory shelter for another turn around. This end section ads on the remaining 1.5mi to complete the 12.5 bike course.

Check http://www.beginnertriathlete.com/ It is free w/ lots of info.

There is nothing stopping you from doing your 1st event with your current MTB, board shorts, and running shoes. No need to spend $$$ first time out.

For a Sprint length, your Mountain bike should be fine. You could easily find a set of inexpensive road tires for $20 - $40 for a set of tires. MTB and Road (Tri) bikes generally have different wheel sizes and are not interchangeable. If you ride the slicks alot training for other events, you'll probably wear them out before you put them on an upgraded frame. Regarding pedal & shoes, yes they will help but not needed. Ride with your running shoes on platforms -- no problem.

As far as wetsuits go, it depends on water temp. I don't know your budget but you can find bargains on used wetsuits on ebay. If you decide on getting a wetsuit, stick with a triathlon specific design. I do recommend tri shorts. Again, inexpensive tri shorts (new) can be found on ebay for <$40.

Hope that helps. Best of luck !!

I'm only a few years out of college, so I can sympathize with a college student's budget :)

first, I don't think for the length of your tri (and it being June, and your first one) you would need a wet suit. As mentioned, you may want to consider tri shorts as they can make a huge difference in drag over board shorts- and you can run in them, too! (If you are training with them in chlorine, though they may break down quicker, so you could consider jammers for your swim training)

second, I also think you will be fine with a MTB. I do think that clipless pedals make a big difference in your power. shop around (CL, ebay, etc) and maybe you can find a deal in your budget.

and last- HAVE FUN! Its going to be a great experience. If you really enjoy it, maybe you can acquire some of the gear you want as bday and xmas presents. Also- end of season sales! By the time you complete your first tri, you'll be mere months away from the closeout season. :D


*edit: - also, you could look into tri shops in the area- they may rent wet suits if you anticipate the water to be very cold. you'll want one that is tri, not scuba specific, so check with a tri shop first.

The swim is short enough that you could probably get away without a wetsuit. If you think you need one, I'd suggest renting. No point in buying if you aren't sure you'll stick with the sport. Most tri shops will rent them, check around.

Your MTB will be fine. Buy some slick tires & you're set!

You'll see people with all different kinds of bikes/gear, so don't worry too much - have fun!!

Let me start by saying thanks for all the help and encouragement. Everyone has helped me come to a few conclusions. I am going to get triathlon shorts and the road tires, but hold off on the pedals and wetsuit.

Now I have one more question for everyone, will I be able to get a decent helmet to use for less than 50 bucks? If so, any suggestions as to which one?

Thanks again.

I would say you dont need a wetsuit but it will help. Tri-suit or shorts/top will be fine. Fore sure do not go and buy a bike, just ride what you have.

Let me start by saying thanks for all the help and encouragement. Everyone has helped me come to a few conclusions. I am going to get triathlon shorts and the road tires, but hold off on the pedals and wetsuit.

Now I have one more question for everyone, will I be able to get a decent helmet to use for less than 50 bucks? If so, any suggestions as to which one?

Thanks again.
are you looking into a tri helmet (aka, sperm helmet)? if so, you really don't need one of those, the idea is to help you be more aerodynamic (which on a MTB and without aero bars you will not be doing much).

Just get any cycling helmet- I bought my last one off here (http://www.nashbar.com/), a pretty nice giro for around $20.

Yeah I didn't plan to get a tri helmet. Thanks for the help.

However, once you do get into tris in a serious way, the tri helmet is the best bang for the buck for aero there is. As long as you can keep the helmet in the aero position, that is.