I've been training for my first triathlon and in the meantime have been running in local races and have been considering entering a TT. What kind of average speeds can I expect? I do not know much about who else is racing, but I would assume it is the full range of skill levels. The race is a 40 K. I generally average 21-22 mph for 30 mile rides. Will I be left in the dust with these speeds? Thank you.

Joe

Depends on your experience, engine (strength and Vo2 Max), the course, the conditions as well as the specific distance of the TT. The distance of the TT event is not always 40k...the one that I raced in during spring was 10.5 miles in a 7-race series. The course was not a cake walk as it had hills, a 180 turn around and wind. I averaged 23-24 mph over 7-races and was a mid-pack guy in the 30+ cat4 racers at the age of 47 on the best equipment $$ can buy. I average pretty much the same speeds in a 1/2 IM (23-24) as I'm not a sprint guy at all but more an endurance athlete. Although, I do pretty well on the bike in 1/2 IM's and IM's the pro's are are 4-5 MPH faster. The top guys in the TT series I raced in are 27 - 28 mph avg speed, but these guys are real cyclists (seasoned Cat 2 and 3 racers) not swimmers or runners. They are on their bikes every day putting in a ton of miles and they have been doing it for years as part of a competitive team.

Thank you. I appreciate the input. I feel like I could get myself to the 25 mph average point with a little training. Thanks again!

Joe