Tri Equipment Recommendations (Bars and shoes)

tagoona

Hi,
I've finally decided after 3 tris in the last 2 years, that I'm not a beginner and that I like this sport.
With 3 more to come this year, I'm looking to buy some of the basics, that I probably should have had in the beginning.

Pedals and Cleats
Are there any recommendation on connection types for triathlons? Or are they all variations on a theme? These look alright, but what do I know.

Cycle Shoes
I know I need tri-shoes, with 1 strap.
The problem is how comfortable are these shoes? Ideally I'd like to try them on first. Is there anywhere galway-limerick with a decent range in stock. Or are they all the same?
And I presume I just need to make sure that the shoes can take the cleats that I chose?!?

Tri Bars
I know I can get tri-bars that are fully integrated, but I've got half a setup now, so I'm hoping to go with clip-ons. Can't seem to see any on wiggle?
Any recommendations on a particular brand?

Thanks in advance for the wise words of seasoned athletes.
Paul

mjth2004

Paul,

I’m just about to head into a meeting, so a very quick response as I’m sure others will point you in the right direction!

Cleats are the same as what I’m using – do the job nicely!

Cycle shoes – best heading to LBS to try a couple of pairs on! Might be no harm to go somewhere that can fit the cleats for you to, try aim for LBS that know about triathlon set-ups as you can have them to have a look at your bike set up while they are fitting the cleats for you!

I would recommend a cranked seat-post to – but that is only my opinion!

Tri bars – I have the following, http://www.wiggle.co.uk/p/cycle/7/Profile_T2_Plus_Clip_On_Aero_Bar_Extension/5360020749/, which do the job nicely but I’ve been told that something like these, http://www.wiggle.co.uk/p/cycle/7/Profile_Century_Aero_ZB_Aero_Bars/4000000916/, are usually best for starting off with!

Hope some of the above helps!

Highway_To_Hell

Paul, would recommend gettting fitted in a LBS for shoes and then price them on line.

I have used these type of clip on aero bars (Profile AirStryke 2000 Aero Bars) for the past few years and the work well as the arm rest are spring loaded and flip up out of the way and give you a bit more real estate on the handle bars.

stevie_b

i got a pair of the shimano TR-51 shoes recently. very comfortable and they fit me perfectly (as in i didnt have to get a size down in order to get a correct fit).
with the carbon sole they are much better than my normal road shoes.

daymobrew

I recommend Lock Laces so you don't have to lace up your runners.

Highway_To_Hell wrote: »

I have used these type of clip on aero bars (Profile AirStryke 2000 Aero Bars) for the past few years and the work well as the arm rest are spring loaded and flip up out of the way and give you a bit more real estate on the handle bars.

I have these too - the spring loading is excellent. Without them you lose access to part of your handlebars.

For shoes I recommend a single velcro strap. I have shoes with a ratchet clip that can be slow to use. My mtb shoes with 3 velcro straps are much quicker and are easier to adjust while on the bike.

SucCes09

thanks for this - was looking for reasonably priced tri bars, and http://www.wiggle.co.uk/p/cycle/7/Profile_T2_Plus_Clip_On_Aero_Bar_Extension/5360020749/ suit the wallet.
Always wonder why the prices of these bars is so high!

tunney

SucCes09 wrote: »

thanks for this - was looking for reasonably priced tri bars, and http://www.wiggle.co.uk/p/cycle/7/Profile_T2_Plus_Clip_On_Aero_Bar_Extension/5360020749/ suit the wallet.
Always wonder why the prices of these bars is so high!

where are you based?

BombSquad

SucCes09 wrote: »

thanks for this - was looking for reasonably priced tri bars, and http://www.wiggle.co.uk/p/cycle/7/Profile_T2_Plus_Clip_On_Aero_Bar_Extension/5360020749/ suit the wallet.
Always wonder why the prices of these bars is so high!

Agreed. They're very pricey. I have those ones. Paid €110 for them. Wish Aldi/Lidl had brought some out...