So... I hate to be the new guy to bring this one up (actually I don't but it seems polite to say so) but this is supposed to be a sticky on which bike people should buy when getting into the sport, and while I enjoyed the discussion on seat positions, I don't even own a bike yet and I am still interested to know more about which bikes people prefer and why.
You are both obviously very into riding and possess a rather in depth body of knowledge in regard to cycling. I'd like to hear your take on what kind of bike a new rider/newbie to tri's should look at when making a first bike purchase.
I have come to the understanding that which bike is not nearly important as how it fits and how comfortable you are while riding. More important is getting familiar with the bike and then if you get seriously into the sport, buy a great bike! (but thats an opinion formed in about weeks worth of reading and a total 140 miles total logged on a borrowed bike)