So I have not yet competed in a triathlon but I do commute to and from work everyday. One of the bikes I ride is a steel 80s gt mountain bike. I have put slicks on it (certainly the best improvement I made) and then because of the wind and I wanted more speed I picked up a set of aero bars from craigslist for $25 and I love them. The bars get me low and out of the wind and puts me in a position where I feel I get more leverage on my pedal strokes. I have definately noticed a difference with the bars...... I say find cheap bars on Craigslist and go for it....