Triathlon Equipment Reviews: Bikes, Wetsuits, Shoes & More

Buy the GMC Denali Road Bike

If you’re looking for a bargain then look no further than the GMC Denali Road Bike. It’s one of the cheapest bikes around and its quality isn’t that bad either. It’s an excellent day to day bike that can be quickly modified for triathlon racing if a few upgrades are implemented.

The Denali Road Bikes strengths are its great gearing which will allow you to pick up some fast speeds with ease.  Heading downhill you should easily be able to hit 40+ mph. If it’s your first time using a road bike then you might find it slightly awkward having to bend forward to reach the brakes but it’s something you’ll quickly get used to. For day to day use such as commuting you’ll quickly become adjusted and it’ll allow you to speed from work in no time at all.

The bikes frame is made of solid aluminium which makes it strong and rust resistant.  The stokes however are made of steel rather than aluminium making them much heavier. It’s got a lightweight build at only 29 lbs but this isn’t as light as it’s slightly more expensive rival the Schwinn Katana Road Bike.

Putting together this triathlon bike is not a very difficult task. If you’re never done it before then it might take you an hour or so to complete. However, if you’ve had a triathlon bike like this before then you should be able to complete the task more quickly and easily. Using Allen keys you just attach all of the parts provided to the frame including the seats, pedals, tyres and reflectors and then make fine tuning adjustments to the gearing and brakes. It also comes with a kickstand which is a nice addition for when you’ve finished in between your rides. This can also be quickly removed for those who dislike kickstands.

Some of its downsides however are that the seat angle isn’t adjustable and so you might want to purchase a replacement seat such as this seat if you think that’s going to bother you.  The brakes are effective but not excellent and could be of a better standard. Also if you’re a tall guy like me then you might want to consider purchasing wider pedals as you might find them to be too narrow for your feet.

This is a good looking road bike and if you really wanted to you could easily pass it off as something much more expensive than it actually is. You’ll be surprised at how good it looks and the comments you get considering the price you actually pay for the bike. In fact you could get 4-5 of these Denali bikes for the same price of a single professional triathlon bike.

GMC Denali Road Bike Specifications:

• 21-speed road bike features a lightweight aluminum frame
• Frame: Aluminum 7005 straight gauge
• Fork: GMC Series 7000 steel
• Chain: KMC Z 51
• Crankset: Prowheel Alloy 335P6 28X38X48 170mm
• Front Derailleur: Shimano FD-TZ 31 Index
• Rear Derailleur: Shimano RD-TZ30GS 7SPD
• Shifters: Shimano Revo SIS L2/R7
• Brake levers: Promax BL-250AP Aluminum
• Brakes: Promax 501A Alloy Caliper Brake
• Rims: Vitesse Alloy black 700CX14GX36H
• Tires: Kenda Black With Grey Band 700X28C
• Stem: Aluminum black EXT:100mm 0D.
• Handlebar: Maesbend W: 430mm D:22.0mm
• Saddle: Cionlli Black
• Seat post: HL Aluminum Micro Adjust 27.2 X 300mm
• Pedals: VP-990S plastic body with steel cage
• Weight: 29.0 lbs
• 1 Year warranty information.

Pros

Fast enough for triathlon racing (and with some simple upgrades it can be even better)
Best bike available for racing in the $200 range
Comes with a full year warranty for missing parts

Cons

If you’re serious about getting a good triathlon time you might want to spend a bit more
Brakes aren’t up to scratch
The frame of the bike is good but some of the additional attachments could be better

Conclusion

This bike is by no means perfect but if you’re looking for a bargain then you’ll be hard pressed to find a better triathlon bike. If you’ve got a bit more cash then maybe consider the Schwinn Katana Road Bike instead.

Buy the Schwinn Katana Road/Triathlon Bike

If you’re not prepared to invest in a highly professional bike that will cost you thousands of dollars then the Schwinn Katana Triathlon Bike is an ideal substitute. For only a couple of hundred dollars you’re given excellent quality that won’t break your bank. However if you’re a triathlete who is at the top of their game then you might want to give this one a miss – for everyone else this bike is perfect.

The riding is smooth, it’s quite a good climber and when going downhill it’s able to hold speeds of 40-50mph on a steep slant. The changing of gears goes over smoothly and can easily adjust to your required pace depending on whether you’re heading up or downhill. The one slight downside is that the brakes could be a little stronger however they’re still adequate and will be able to bring you to a quick halt.

You get a choice of a 54 cm or 58 cm frame – I’m 6 foot tall and the 58 cm frame fitted me fine. Those under 5 foot 9 inches should probably go for the 54 cm frame. You’ll notice when carrying the bike that it’s incredibly light, however this is to be expected of a triathlon racing bike. The 54 cm model weighs around about 24lbs which is very light however if you’re looking to reduce the weight even further then consider replacing the pedals with clip less versions.

Shipping’s pretty fast and it should arrive to you within a week. When it’s delivered to you, it comes packed separately however it’s relatively easy to put together in a within an hour or so. The assembly requires you to mount the seat to the frame as well as the handlebars, front wheel and front brake. You’ll also need to inflate the tires as well and if you’re looking to buy fenders then consider adding these to your purchase. As with every bike that you buy you’ll need to adjust the brakes and derailleur’s but it’s nothing complicated.

Looks wise I personally love the blue finish that’s given and think it’s one of the best looking triathlon bikes I’ve ever seen. In fact many people thought the bike was twice the amount I bought it for. If you’re good at bike maintenance and know what you’re doing then you might even be able to fiddle around with it and upgrade the rest of the bike into something worth 1000+ dollars.

Specifications for the Schwinn Katana Road/Triathlon Bike

• Speeds: 14
• Drivetrain: Shimano
• Rear derailleur: A050
• Cranks: Tru-Vativ IsoFlow alloy (53-34t crankset) , 28-14t casset
• Frame: Alloy Aero
• 54cm frame size is appropriate for riders 5′6″ to 5′9″
• 58cm frame size is appropriate for riders 5′10 to 6′1″
• Wheel set: 24 spoke areo X
• Tyres: 120psi
• Choice of 30-34 inch inseam
• Weighs approx: 24lbs
• Standard tire nozzles
• All components manufacturered by Shimano and TruVativ

Pros:
Excellent quality and value for money
Ideal first triathlon bike for beginners
Most other bikes of similar calibre cost twice the amount
Looks great and flashy, you’ll definitely look the part

Cons:
Brakes are average but not great
Professionals might want to pay more for higher quality

Conclusion

This is the ideal triathlon bike for semi-professional triathletes. For quality and value of money you’ll be hard pressed to find a better triathlon bike elsewhere.

With so many choices, buying the right triathlon wetsuit can be a daunting task.  Our goal is to provide you with information on our top e picks, making the buying process a little easier.  Being informed about the options for a triathlon wetsuit mean you will likely end up with a suit that you feel comfortable competing in and one that provides protection to the body while in cold water.

1. Ironman Fusion – This particular triathlon wetsuit was designed with the solid swimmer in mind.  The design features two pieces that zip together for a perfectly sealed wetsuit.
2. DeSoto T1 – DeSoto creates several great wetsuits but this particular design is a favorite among competitors.  This triathlon wetsuit is sold as a top and bottom so every person gets a perfect fit to their specific body.  With the two pieces not being attached, most competitors agree they do not tire as easily and exiting the wetsuit is much easier.
3. Orca Predator 2 – This one piece wetsuit is designed with something special known as target paneling.  With this, the wetsuit actually improves performance by creating better buoyancy and giving the swimmer more flexibility.
4. Ironman VO2 Stealth – Another great triathlon wetsuit, this one is the conventional one-piece design.  The great thing about this is that you will notice a reduction in drag and better buoyancy.
5. Aquaman Pulsar – Designed with a reverse pull zipper, serious competitors appreciate the quick exit of this triathlon wetsuit.
6. QR Superfull – The super flexible neoprene and quick release zipper has made this particular brand of triathlon wetsuit one of the more popular choices.
7. O’Neill Triathlon 4/3 – Many competitors love the shorter design of this wetsuit along with features to include full zip for quick exit and the Ultraflex material in the shoulders and arms for free movement.
8. Piel VITO – For this triathlon wetsuit, the exit design is truly the best you will find.  This design has a unique break away zipper going all the way from the neck to ankle, meaning in six seconds or less and with a single pull, you are on to the next phase of the triathlon.

Is it true that a triathlon wetsuit can make you swim faster?  Most people who participate in triathlons say yes.  There are a number of factors to consider, one of the most important being floatation.  With a triathlon wetsuit, drag is reduced so ultimately, you do swim faster.  Additionally, a wetsuit can actually help position the body and head better making performance better.  When shopping for a wetsuit, you want to choose slick material to help water skim right over the body, thus reducing drag.

You will find many different brands of a triathlon wetsuit but some of the best include Zoot, Aquarman, Xterra, Orca, DeSoto, Ironman, ProMotion, and Quntana Roo or QR.  These companies have spent years researching materials, designs, and features to ensure anyone choosing their wetsuit sees a significant improvement in performance and speed.

The thing to remember is that while each triathlon wetsuit manufacturer makes a product with unique design features, the primary concept remains the same.  Therefore, you could certainly choose the highest priced wetsuit if you like but chances are you would get the same or near same benefits buying a lower priced wetsuit.  The goal is to make sure whatever triathlon wetsuit you buy has tight seals and fits like a glove.

Typically, if you are going to compete in a Sprint or Olympic format triathlon, which have the shortest distances for all three phases of the event, then you might not need to spend significant money on a wetsuit.  However, if you plan to compete in the top two formats, being the Half-Ironman and Ironman, spending an additional $300 for a top of the line triathlon wetsuit might be to your advantage.

Remember, every triathlon wetsuit is going to fit differently and come with unique features.  It is true that some designs are sleeker than others are which can improve speed but the challenge is that there are no test drives.  In other words, you find a wetsuit you like, read reviews, and trust what the manufacturer says.  However, until you are actually in the water competing, you will never know the exact speed gained.

In the first part on what to look for when buying a triathlon wetsuit, we covered reasons why this type of swimwear is needed and a few of the features considered vital.  In addition to getting a proper fit, thickness of material, and a neck and wrist seal, there are other features that need to be considered.  The following are other options associated with most styles of a triathlon wetsuit.

• Exiting – This is actually very important and we will explain why.  With a triathlon, you begin by swimming, followed by biking and then finally, running.  A triathlon wetsuit is made from material that is very form fitting so sometimes, it can be challenging to put on and take off.  However, being in a race, you need a triathlon wetsuit that is easy to get out of so you can quickly move to the next phase of the competition.  One of the best design options is a wetsuit made with a zipper but remember the wetsuit must have good seals to keep water out for comfort, speed, and protection.

• Construction – The construction of a triathlon wetsuit is also an important consideration.  The best design is one that has been both glued and stitched during the manufacturing process.  Although this double construction costs more than what you would pay for only a glue or stitch construction, it is money well spent.

• Types of Sleeves – The triathlon wetsuit is made in both sleeved and sleeveless designs.  While there are advantages and disadvantages to each, typically the decision is more personal than performance related. Even so, wetsuits with sleeves are beneficial for float, drag reduction and greater speed whereas people who choose wetsuits without sleeves feel they are more comfortable and have easier movement.

• Warranty – Finally, any triathlon wetsuit is a financial investment so regardless of the brand, design, or features, we recommend you purchase from a reputable manufacturer, one that provides a solid warranty against defects.

The first phase of every triathlon is swimming.  We are providing you with helpful information needed for making the right purchase.  Depending on the format of the triathlon, the distance would vary, being anywhere from 400 to 825 yards up to 1.2 miles.  Keep in mind that triathlons take place around the world so athletes are constantly facing different water conditions.  For instance, sometimes the water is relatively warm and other times, bitterly cold.  Based on the current conditions, you would choose the appropriate type of swimwear.

Most often, people competing in a triathlon will wear a triathlon wetsuit for the ultimate in protection, as well as to create an aerodynamic profile.  However, just as there are differences in water temperature and condition, you will also find a variety of styles and features associated with a triathlon wetsuit.  The following are some of the features triathlon competitors deem most beneficial.

• Fit – Probably the most critical consideration when buying a triathlon wetsuit is proper fit.  Obviously, the wetsuit should be comfortable but it also needs to be snug enough to provide the body with a protective layer.  Some athletes choose wetsuits with short arms and legs, which allows greater speed.

• Material Thickness – Next, a triathlon wetsuit comes in different densities depending on the part of the body covered. For instance, the arm and shoulder areas are typically thinner, which makes movement in the water easier.  However, certain parts of the leg and the chest area are covered with a denser material.  When shopping, follow a simply rule – parts of the body that need to move freely would be covered with a thinner layer while other parts of the body that help with flotation need a thicker layer.  Most of all, a triathlon wetsuit must have good stretch and a watertight seal.

• Seals – Two parts of a triathlon wetsuit that need tight seals include the wrists and neck.  With this, water stays out so the body remains warm.  Additionally, if the triathlon wetsuit is not properly sealed, water will leak inside, which creates a dangerous situation.

Today more than any other time since the start of triathlons, we see innovative and exciting changes made in triathlon shoes.  New designs and materials have helped to dramatically reduced transition time, created more comfort for the rider, and prices have gone down while quality has gone up.  Triathlon shoes include those used for the biking phase, as well as the running phase.

The following are some of the better brands of triathlon shoes for you to consider.  Of course, these are only a few of hundreds of possibilities.

• Adidas Tri-Sprint – Backed by the Adidas name, these triathlon shoes are attractive, made with a nylon and glass fiber outsold for the perfect balance of comfort and stiffness, and breathing design to keep the foot cool.

• Shimano TR31 – Another great option for triathlon shoes, these are sleek in appearance, made with a seamless lining to be worn without socks, ventilated insole, mesh panels, and rubber protection on the heel.

• Sidi T-2 – One of the more innovative designs for triathlon shoes, this brand offers 100% pure carbon inserts to alleviate pressure pain, inside absorbent material, double ventilation, and increased flexibility for improved performance.

• Northwave Tribal – When it comes to triathlon shoes, this brand is classy and distinctive with a yellow and red design.  Some of the main features of this shoe include the carbon sole insert, Velcro strap for easy entrance and exit, features a cork lined inner sole, lightweight design, and a reinforced heel box, making transition easier and quicker.

• Mavic Tri Pro – The last of the triathlon shoes we want to mention is made by Mavic.  This is an innovative design that has some unique features.  For instance, the shoe is extremely lightweight, developed with a carbon outsold, easy on strap, and comes with different Energy technologies for the best fit possible.

If you have ever watched someone compete in a triathlon, chances are you were fascinated at how quickly the competitors moved from one phase to the next.  The key to making good time or even winning a triathlon has to do with transition.  In other words, an athlete needs to get out of the water and wetsuit quickly, slip on triathlon shoes, snap into the bike’s pedals, and then move to the running phase.

Every second of a triathlon counts, which is why manufacturers have created some very innovative triathlon shoes to improve performance.  Unfortunately, many top competitors have lost a triathlon because of long or difficult transitions.  Keep in mind that most of the top triathlons have huge money prizes.  These people are competing for hundreds of thousands of dollars so choosing the right equipment such as the right triathlon shoes is imperative.

One of the more popular features of triathlon shoes sold in today’s market is the Velcro strap.  Just as that used on a child’s shoe, the single or double strap is secured to the foot within a matter of seconds.  Interestingly, most triathlon shoes are made so as the rider coasts to conserve energy, he or she can simply slip the foot out of the shoe, which also gives the foot a break.  Since triathlon shoes are snapped securely into the pedals, there is no fear of losing the shoe along the way.

Additionally, moving from the biking phase to the running phase needs to be smooth and quick.  With triathlon shoes still snapped into the bike’s pedals, the athlete simply runs barefoot to the next set of shoes and onto the final leg of the race.  This saves the person a tremendous amount of time, keeping momentum going.

Triathlon shoes play an important role for two phases of a triathlon.  The first phase is biking, which requires specially designed shoes for grip and safety.  The second phase is the last phase, running.  Obviously, when running, you need good support in a triathlon shoe.  Some triathlons are long and tiring.  Therefore, you need to do all you can for the body and the feet so you not only finish the competition, but that you win.

For biking, you will find that triathlon shoes actually look a lot like regular biking shoes.  However, these shoes are designed with automatic binding cleats, also known as “clipless”.  The purpose of this design is to allow the show to snap into the pedals of the bike, creating a solid grip for better control, maneuverability, and speed.

Triathlon shoes are often made with padding so people can wear them with or without socks.  Remember, in a triathlon, the athlete is exiting the water and jumping onto the bike.  This means there is no time for putting on socks.  Instead, triathlon shoes are slipped on for a smooth and quick transition.  Additionally, the design of triathlon shoes includes holes so water simply drains out.

You will also discover that the most popular design of triathlon shoes is the single or double Velcro strap.  Without the hassle of shoelaces, buckles, or other cumbersome closures, you can get out of the water, into the shoe, and onto the bike in no time at all.  In fact, the most common design of triathlon shoes is a Velcro strap that goes from the outside of the shoe to the inside, which goes against the conventional design.  However, this simple design change has proven to save significant time.  Obviously, this is a race so every second saved puts you one-second closer to the finish line.

With thousands of possibilities for triathlon equipment, the process of buying things for training and competing can be overwhelming.  Typically, a person just getting started will have some basic understanding as to the type and quality of triathlon equipment needed but still have tons of questions.  The good news is that there are all types of wonderful books on the market that can provide you with a wealth of information.

Any of the following books are excellent.  In addition to providing insight into the various options for triathlon equipment, most also have tons of tips and other tools that will make you the best athlete possible.

• Fundamentals of Swimming – Written by Stephen Taylor, this particular book provides an excellent overview of techniques needed to be a powerful triathlon competitor.  In addition, this book has many great drills that will help strengthen the body and improve endurance level.

• Triathlon Training in Four Hours a Week – In addition to providing information on triathlon equipment, this book also covers practical and motivational advice to help you succeed.  Some of the workouts cover 40 minutes of strengthening and stretching and 10 minute workouts specific to improve endurance.

• Be Iron-Fit – Time Efficient Training Secrets for Ultimate Fitness – If you are a serious athlete, someone interested in completing a Half-Ironman or Ironman triathlon, this is a fantastic resource.  Some of the topics covered include triathlon equipment, marathon running, open water swimming, biking, and other revolutionary training tips by Don Fink.

• Triathlons for Women: Training Plans, Equipment, and Nutrition – Triathlon competition is not only for men.  Today, we see the number of women athletes coming forward to make their mark.  This too is an outstanding resource that covers triathlon equipment, proper nutrition, and innovative training techniques.  Included are photographs, information about overtraining, history of women competitors, and much more.