Lsudreamer

I am planning to sign up for my first triathlon. Its a 350m swim, 12 mi bike, and 2 mi run. They will have two bike groups "road" and "fat tire" of which I will most likely be in the fat tire division depending on what bike I end up purchasing this next week.

I am a newbie to triathlons and have no idea what I will need to prepare and to participate. Any advice would be helpful. Thanks!

Ridinmurray

Me too, good luck to you. There are some nice road bikes AV used if you're looking to save some $$. If not, the main thing is the correct size. Bike is like underwear, if it doesn't fit, it ain't comfortable. The road bike could carry you a long way if you really like to TRI. anyway, again, good luck & enjoy.

b2run

I did my first try a tri with a 25 year old steel 10 speed and did very well. If you're not sure if you want to commit to the sport, just get a bike that works for you. You may want to check out www.beginnertriathlete.com They have mentor groups and a lot of people willing to help.

Rhodabike

My better half sold his previous 'cross bike to a young woman who was starting triathlons and wanted something that she felt would be sturdier than a road bike. A 'cross bike is probably overkill, but there is the option of fat tires for the crappy roads we have around here and narrow tires for race day.
This is the one he sold (he found a Ridley Crossbow that he liked better), but there are lots of similar models on the market.
https://www.bikes.com/main+en+01_102+...ATID=25&Y=2009

Lsudreamer

I ended up getting a Del Sol LXi 7.1 just to pull the kids around the neighborhood with... I was told it should be fine for the fat tire division. Now I need to start crossing off the "must haves" for race day. I have 8 weeks to prepare... if I am really going to do this.