I just moved to Florida where there are 0 hills compared to Massachusetts. I looked at some of the duathalon times for a few races held in my are and to be honest, they are pathetic. Averaging an 8 min mile on the run and only about 17 mph on the bike???? REALLY??? Will a tri bike really save me that much time in either a sprint or olympic distance race, or am I really going to get all the time I can get out of my road bike with aerobars due to the shortness of the race?

This is completely hypothetical right now as I dont have the $$ to go get a new bike, but I told myself if I start winning races I'd think about it. This is just pure curiosity.

If it's hypothetical, why worry about it right now. Go over to the San Antonio-Claremont area and ride some Fl. hills, enjoy the sunshine and weather, and save up the $$$$$ for when you are ready for the Tri bike.

Welcome to FL.

p.s.-IM70.3FL on April 12th in Hanes City is still open. Come and join in the fun.

Go get top ten finish first

Do those averages include the transition time, or just the bike speed average once out of the transition area. You can probably find some locals in the race who posted their splits and specs.

My paces all hover around what you call pathetic, but I was still happy to get my tri bike - and it made training more fun.

LOL...I wish I could muster a pathetic 8min pace. I am usually closer to 9 on the run.

That being said, unless you are looking for podium times, a tri-bike won't matter that much. From what I have read, bigger gains can be had in transition. I was looking to get into one for all my rides as I have friends that have made that transition. However, now, I am looking at some of the aero-road bikes like the new Fuji Transonic.

I suppose if I was only going to do triathlon, I would consider it more.

interesting thread. thanks for posting!