Triathlon - Need Advice/Affirmation

Hello, let me start by giving some info about me.

I recently got the mindset to start training for triathlons. I am currently a junior in college at UNL (Nebraska). I will/should have all the money in august/september. So, at first I was thinking about getting an aluminum frame bike and spend around $1500. But the more research I did the more I thought I should maybe get a entry level carbon frame bike and spend around $2000. Also, this will be my first road/tri bike. I just don't want to buy an alum bike then upgrade within a year.

I guess what I am wondering if this is a good choice, or am I going to get a junk carbon frame for that cheap? And, if you do suggest a carbon frame, what are companies that are reputable in lower end carbon frames?

I don't know if it matters, but I weigh 180lbs.

thanks in advance!

If I were you I would try to find a used carbon road bike(mid to high end). If you have made your decision to buy new, then don't buy exactly a *** but if you get a deal on it the 2000 range would be good. I think Felt makes some nice lower end carbon bikes.

As for carbon vs aluminum, Carbon will be more comfortable(so you can be doing ironmans on it) and aluminum will give you more power transfer.

I would recommend getting a road bike and then adding aero bars, so you can try road races too, not to mention you can get better quality in a road bike than a tri bike for the same price.

If you are just going to be doing triathlons, then I would say yes, get a tri bike. If you are just doing sprints and olympics, you could pick up a lot of speed by getting a solid aero frame in alum, and adding some race wheels down the road. 1/2 or full IM, and you might appreciate the carbon more. Start watching sales right now - many dealers seem to really cut the prices on their inventory around year end. August towards September you should see prices coming down. I've also heard that some of the big makers are going to release the 2010 line early, since the 09 stock hasn't moved well with the economy. Hopefully we will see some really good deals on 09 closeouts earlier than usual.

Thanks for the replies.

Yes I plan on doing just tri's for now but already know that I am going to venture into the 1/2IM and IM. I just have no desire to do crits, etc.

Also, thanks plainsman for talking about sales around year end because I was curious when they released the new lineups.

Well I think if everything goes as planned, then I will be looking more towards the carbon side of things. I like the Felt B16 but I'm trying to find a reputable LBS to get fitted and feel it out.

Thanks again for the replies and if anyone else wants to share their opinion, post it up.