Best Entry-level Triathlon Bikes for Beginners

 

This post was originally published at BetterTriathlete.com

Let's be real. For many of us, the cost of buying a triathlon bike is not far from a full month's income. While finding a used bike can be an economical option, new bikes can easily average $4,000-5,000+. Fortunately, there are several high-end tri bikes that come with more affordable price tags. Here's a handful of them.

Felt B Triathlon Bike

Bikes like the Felt S32, B16, and B12 were among some of the original legends of the late 2000s. The B marque has long graced the entry-level model in Felt’s range of triathlon bikes, and at price ranges well under $3k (some even less than $2k).

Fast-forward to today and Felt is still producing bikes based on this legacy series, now simply known as "B". It's been updated in recent years to feature a full carbon frame set with aero shaping gleaned from the brand’s top-of-the-line and six-time Kona-winning IA collection.

Featuring classic rim brakes and a Shimano Ultegra group, the B is a great option for beginner and experienced triathletes, alike, providing terrific performance and value.

While B integrates aspects of the iconic B12 and B16 models, it also takes cues from Felt's top-performance IA model, as well as the iconic DA frame kit. In other words, B is based on decades of aerodynamic innovation.

Unlike some tri bikes of today, Felt's B maintains the integrity of a simple design but one that doesn't compromise on performance. The aerodynamically-optimized downtube design and TeXtreme carbon technology make for a top-end bike at an unbeatable price.

B's designed around a carbon frame and fork and the bike weighs in at 20 lbs. It's also equipped with Shimano Ultegra components and the capacity to convert to electronic shifting.

The Felt B triathlon bike starts at $2,299.

Learn more at FeltBicycles.com.

A2 Speed Phreak

Priced attractively in the sub $2k range, A2's Speed Phreak is an aggressive tri bike that's widely regarded for its feather-light feel, stable cornering, and snappy acceleration.

Positioned with a low basebar, Speed Phreak is a proper TT bike that's crafted for low aero positions and PR-breaking bike splits. While climbing may feel different with lower basebars, it can also be beneficial for out-of-saddle accelerations and sprints.

Although the bike's low price and direct-to-consumer model make it appear like an entry-level tri bike, Speed Phreak is a top-rate carbon bike that's well equipped for any caliber athlete.

For triathletes looking to invest in their first triathlon bike, but one that holds lasting value and growth, Speed Phreak doesn't hold back on maximizing an athlete's potential. It's also the perfect foundation for performance upgrades and future customization.

Stiff, responsive, and aero, Speed Phreak is an ideal TT bike for short course racing and bike-dominant triathletes.

With several more premium options available, the Ultegra 105 version is priced at $1,899

Scope the Speed Phreak at A2bikes.com

Cervélo P-series

Dovetailing on Cervélo's widely-acclaimed P2 and P3 time trial bikes is the new P-series, a lighter, stiffer, and more aerodynamic evolution from the prolific bike brand.

The Cervélo P-series triathlon bikes provide an optimal balance between speed and comfort. Athletes can leverage highly-responsive power transfer and receptive handling, all while enjoying smooth, compliant comfort in the saddle over the course of long miles.

Based on a long-standing legacy of the Cervélo P2 and P3, the P-series triathlon bike advances air economy and overall aerodynamics, infusing the long-distance race requirement features available in higher-end models like the P5X.

The extended seat tube cutout, a distinct feature in Cervélo P-series bikes, shields the leading edge of the rear wheel to enhance aerodynamic capabilities. Built around an all-carbon frame, tapered P fork, and seatpost, Cervélo P-series marries performance with an approachable price range.

There are several models available, with the Ultegra 105 entry-level version of the P-series starting at $3,200

Learn more at Cervélo.com

Quintana Roo PRfour

Quintana Roo is a household name in the triathlon scene. The brand has taken claim in the invention of the first triathlon-specific bike back in 1987.

Of the latest models to reflect QR's pioneering innovation in TT bike technology is the PRseries. With three primary models extending from the PRfour to the PRsix, QR offers a premium tri bike for all levels.

The PRsix offers a high modulous carbon composition, making the frame lighter and stiffer than the PRfour and PRfive. This model can be found in the $4-6k+ range, depending on the build.

As for the entry-level model, the PRfour is a triathlon bike that delivers all-out race performance at the $3k price point. It's stocked with disc brakes, top tube storage, Shimano 105 components, and a spectrum of color options.

In addition to creating beautiful tri bikes, Quintana Roo is well regarded for its customer service and an overall great reputation for quality bikes.

The Quintana Roo PRfour can be found for around $3,000

Learn more from the official site QuintanaRooTri.com

Giant Trinity Advanced

The Giant Trinity Advanced is an exceptionally high-quality and rigorously-tested triathlon bike that doesn't break the bank. Trinity is the result of Giant's refined aero frame geometry and a wider range of adjustability to allow for a TT-specific fit that can accommodate many different athletes.

Trinity Advanced's contact base bar offers a full range of adjustability, so athletes can dial in the perfect aero position for optimal comfort and performance. It also offers an integrated food storage unit otherwise known as Giant's AeroVault system.

Built with "Advanced-grade composite materials," which is a carbon composite that offers superior stiffness-to-weight ratio, Trinity Advanced doesn't compromise on performance for its entry-level cost.

Trinity Advanced is also engineered around AeroSystem Shaping Technology, which is Giant's way of saying every tube shape is designed to minimize drag and maximize aerodynamics no matter which direction the wind is coming from.

With Shimano 105 components, the Giant Trinity Advanced starts at $2,500

See more specifications and info at Giant-Bicycles.com

Specialized Shiv Sport

The Specialized Shiv Sport is one of the best entry-level triathlon bikes for the price. It's also one of the most universal tri bikes that provides an honest fit for a wide range of athletes.

The Shiv Sport is designed around a Control Tower fit system that enables athletes to optimize stack and reach to achieve the most comfortable and powerful position based on their body composition.

Built with the Specialized FACT 10r carbon fiber frame, the Shiv Sport is wind-tunnel tested and aerodynamically optimized for straight-line speed. It also features meticulously engineered airfoils that minimize side force amid heavy crosswinds.

A unique aspect of this Specialized triathlon bike is its Fuselage Hydration System, which is a water bladder designed inside of the frame. Although sold separately, a Fuelcell can be integrated to store nutrition and tools for flat repairs.

Like most Specialized bikes, the thoughtful details in the Shiv Sport lend to a high-performance triathlon bike that doesn't cripple your savings account.

The price for the Specialized Shiv Sport is set at $3,000

Take a closer look at Specialized.com