Triathlon Juice (TRIJUICE) - triathlon news & resource site - Bike Archives

Specialized Introduces New, Triathlon Specific Shiv

2011-10-05T13:06:16Z

In recent years Specialized has set the tri world on fire. Never before has one team so utterly dominated the sport, with World titles in Ironman, Olympic, Sprint, and XTERRA distances.

We're upping the ante again: Introducing our all-new, triathlon-specific Specialized Shiv. This stealthy speed machine is absolutely not UCI-legal, because it's specically designed for the needs of triathletes: It's more aero than the UCI allows; the fit range is greater than previously possible; and our patented Fuelselage integrated hydration system is a straight-up game changer.

Three words separate Shiv from the rest of the industry: Aero, Fuel, Fit. It all starts with its FACT IS carbon frame. We studied airow in each area of the frame, specifically crosswinds since that's what triathletes usually experience on the road. Then we optimized tubing and frame design for each specic airow pattern, rather than relying on uniform airfoils throughout. Since we weren't restricted by UCI rules, we were free to use ultra-deep airfoil tubing with aspect ratios of up to 4:1 and beyond-faster than the 3:1 UCI standard.

Deeper tubing is only part of the story though. Since traditional water bottle setups are a major drag on aerodynamics, we engineered our Fuelselage reservoir to hide neatly inside the massive down/head tubes. The benets are twofold: It means much safer and more convenient fueling while you're in the aero bars. Plus through extensive wind tunnel testing, we've proven it's the most aerodynamic bike we've ever made--and more aero than any other bike on the market with a bottle.

]]> We've also been able to dramatically improve the fit options for a wide array of riders. The bike is available in ve frame sizes, and features our proprietary Specialized Aero Bars, Control Tower fit system, and flippable airfoil seatposts for a huge range of stack and reach adjustment.

Rather than making just one UCI-legal time trial bike, that also happens to work for triathlon--like the rest of the industry--we stepped outside the UCI box to create a bike exclusively for triathletes. Without these innovation-limiting restrictions, we've rewritten the rulebook on what a tri bike should be. The new Shiv is a testament to our unparalleled commitment to the sport and its athletes.

The S-Works version is available as a complete bike with Shimano's Dura-Ace Di2 electronic shifting and as a frameset module in red and carbon black. The module includes their cranks, aerobar and stem, brakes and seatpost. The S-Works models get their highest end FACT IS 11R carbon fibers, all other carbon Shivs use 10R.

Fuelselage™ integrated hydration system: traditional tube-mounted water bottle setups are a major drag on aerodynamics. To avoid this, and to provide the safest, most ergonomic hydration system possible, we designed the fuelselage™ integrated hydration system to fit neatly inside shiv's massive down tube. Testing proves the system has absolutely no effect on the frame's outstanding aerodynamics.

A removable hydration reservoir (approximate capacity of one water bottle--exact size is frame-specific) fits easily through a port on the top tube, and stows inside the down tube. Riders can refill the reservoir directly through the port without need for removal, even on the fly; and the bite valve can be mounted anywhere on the bars, with a movable magnetic mount. Plus, the whole system can be removed for easy cleaning.

To learn move visit: www.specialized.com/us/en/bc/Shiv.jsp

Felt Launches Custom Paint Color Program

2011-09-02T13:02:42Z

Felt has joined the successful ranks of bike manufacturers now offering personalized paint jobs with the launch of their new Custom Paint Program. Triathletes can look forward to their custom Felt DA frameset paint scheme in the future.

Felt is pleased to announce the launch of its all-new Custom Paint Program. The Custom Paint Program allows customers to create their own paint and decal schemes for the high-performance Felt F1 frameset, and will later be offered for the Felt DA frameset. The custom paint options are accessible on the Felt Bicycles website where customers can design their own color combinations in an intuitive and user-friendly format.

Felt will offer two levels of customization with varying degrees of personalization and cost. The Advanced Option allows consumers to select paint finish, frame color, and decal color and costs an additional $250. The Ultimate+ Option costs $500 and allows consumers to select paint finish, paint mask color, and decal color as well as to customize a top tube text panel. Consumers can choose from thirteen high-quality DuPont paints or raw carbon, and can coat the frames in either a gloss or a matte finish.

To allow customers to select their exact paint specifications while also including dealers into the quality assurance and customer satisfaction process, Felt has developed a unique system for frame delivery. Once the customer creates their custom paint scheme on the website, they then place an order online. When the order is placed, the customer selects a local Felt dealer where they will pick up the frame. The shop will receive the customer's bike within 30 business days of the order being processed.

]]> For more information visit www.feltbicycles.com

Garmin Brings Power to the People with Vector

2011-08-18T17:39:47Z

Today we announced the unveiling of Vector - a high-precision pedal based power meter - designed for cyclists, by cyclists. Vector is the lightest weight direct measurement power meter on the market, and designed for quick installation, portability, and ease-of-use. Taking only minutes to install, Vector provides accurate and reliable power data and uniquely measures and presents right and left leg power balance to ANT+™ compatible head units. Vector was announced in preparation for a world unveiling tour beginning at Australia's Ausbike, then climbing to Germany's Eurobike, and finally sprinting to Las Vegas' Interbike where it will be prominently displayed at Garmin booths in each location. To see Vector in action, go to www.garmin.com/Vector.

"We are excited to get this innovative product into your hands - and under your feet," said Dan Bartel, Garmin's vice president of worldwide sales. "From picking it up at your local bike shop and installing at home in minutes, to giving you accurate and reliable total and independent leg power measurements, Vector becomes one of the most desirable solutions in the cycling market. It's similar to going from 2D to 3D," Bartel continued. "There's a richness in data and capabilities that come from the combination of our location of measurement - the pedals - and Vector's sensor design."

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Quick and easy: For many cycling enthusiasts, purchasing a power meter is an intimidating and potentially complicated process, often involving mechanical tradeoffs for their bikes. Vector simplifies the decisions and the process. Cyclists can now walk into their local bike shop, walk out with a Vector power meter in hand, and install it themselves in minutes. There's no need for a custom order process, no need for a mechanic, and no downtime while their bike is in the shop. With integrated cadence measurement, there are no external sensors to install, and all calibration is performed before the Vector power meter hits the store shelves. Vector's easy-to-install design makes it easy to swap between bikes, and easy to take to out-of-town events when renting or borrowing a bike. Vector's light weight and durable injected carbon fiber pedals are LOOK Keo compatible, and its ANT+ wireless pedal pod transmitters fit most majorcranksets. Vector has also been designed to be easy to update as software enhancements are made, thanks to its ANT+ wireless technology.

Wizardry behind the watts: Vector works by measuring the normal deflection in the pedal spindle as you pedal, throughout your entire pedal stroke. By comparing the measured deflection to a factory-calibrated deflection caused by a known load, Vector can determine how much force you're applying to the pedal. With force measurements, the cadence measurements from Vector's integrated accelerometers, and time, Vector accurately calculates watts. The force sensors are permanently and securely sealed within the pedal spindle, one of the most robust components on the bike.

Get an 'Edge' on the competition: For users already using a Garmin Edge® 800 or Edge 500 cycling computer, adding a Vector power meter will take their training to the next level. Not only will the Edge display total power, left and right leg power, and cadence, it will now also display in real-time the widely adopted power metrics from TrainingPeaks™: Normalized Power (NP ™), Intensity Factor (IF ™) and Training Stress Score (TSS ™). The Edge 800 adds a new interval summary page to enhance the power-based training experience.

"Vector's easy-to-own design has the potential to make power-based training more accessible and usable by a broader range of athletes," said Hunter Allen, founder of Peaks Coaching Group and widely regarded as a leading expert in training with a power meter. "In addition, by integrating the TrainingPeaks metrics of Normalized Power, Intensity Factor and Training Stress Score directly into the Edge head units for real-time display, Garmin continues to demonstrate a strong commitment to advancing power-based cycling tools."

Complete the suite: For post-ride analysis, mapping, course and workout creating and detailed power metrics, Garmin Connect™ is a tool for every level cyclist. With over 1 billion miles logged, users will never be stuck without a new route to explore. At Garmin Connect, cyclists can explore other user's workouts and send them directly to compatible Garmin fitness products to follow. Having all of their cycling electronics and analysis from one brand means they can trust the equipment, the user experience and the support.

The Garmin Vector will be available in March 2012 and will have a suggested retail price of $1,499.99. To learn more visit: www.garmin.com/Vector

Mobile Wind Tunnel Testing for your Triathlon Bike via Aerofit

2011-06-14T14:42:07Z

Want to try a wind tunnel but your surname isn't Lieto, McCormack or Armstrong?

Soon you will be able to do what the big guns can afford at a race near you. The guys at Aerofit recently debuted their mobile wind tunnel truck at the Ironman 70.3 Eagleman triathlon in Maryland. Giving amateur triathletes an opportunity to check out their services and get performance fits and frontal profile adjustments in a wind tunnel. Aerofit is a mobile wind tunnel that offers triathletes and cyclists and affordable and convenient way to find their optimal position on the bike.

The trailer has an open end at the front and a wall of fans at the back. Inside is smooth except for the bike mount. There is a flat screen TV flush with the floor in front of the rider to give feedback.

Using sophisticated resistance engineering under the floor attached to the bike supports, the computer senses minute changes in drag. Additionally, it can be used to sense bike fit by tagging key points on the body and generating a computer image.

Soon budding Chris Lieto's will be able to select from different sessions at race Expo's and get their results analyzed and posted to the website.

According to the brains behind the engineering at Aerofit, one thing is to test equipment, but most riders would benefit from a more optimal position. Even small things like your elbow sticking out to far can have an impact.

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During a session, the rider sees the real-time feedback on the floor monitor by moving different body parts. The guys will call in instructions to optimize resistance and reduce drag.

Aerofit's services include the following:
- Full Service Professional Fit ($750) which takes 90-180 minutes depending on the bike and the rider's ability with 40 minutes dedicated strictly to the wind tunnel.
- Frontal Profile Fit ($250) allows athletes to get in the wind tunnel and make adjustments to their frontal profile position with their existing bike setup. The process takes 30-45 minutes with 20 minutes in the wind tunnel.
- Gear Check Fit ($200) which allows the athtlete to see what gear works best for them. The process takes 20-30 minutes with 15 minutes in the wind tunnel.

Aerofit has partnered with Ironman and will be at the expo of four upcoming Ironman events in 2011. Check the website future event locations: www.aerofitmobile.com
- Ironman Lake Placid: July 24th 2011
- Ironman Louisville: August 28th 2011
- Ironman Wisconsin: September 11th 2011
- Ironman Florida: Novemver 5th 2011

Author(s): Paul Tyler and Ken

Paul Tyler is the founder of Triessential.com and a contributor here at TRIJUICE. Triessential offers an iPhone application that provides training tips and motivation every day throughout the entire year.
www.triessential.com

New ElliptiGO 3C: For Those Days You Want to Bike / Run

2011-05-04T18:25:07Z

If you are looking for a cardio workout, but can't decide whether to bike or run out on the open road, then you might try this. The ElliptiGO 3C is an elliptical bike trainer that you can use outdoors instead of inside at a gym. This new model has been updated with three-speeds and features a lower price.

ElliptiGO, the creators of the world's first elliptical bike announced the availability of the ElliptiGO 3C, a new three-speed elliptical bike. The introduction of the 3C expands the elliptical biking category, introducing more consumers to the fun and exhilaration of the ElliptiGO experience. By combining the best elements of cycling with the natural strides of the running motion, the ElliptiGO 3C delivers a high-performance, low-impact workout for all active adults, from casual exercisers to cross-training athletes. The 3C joins the original ElliptiGO elliptical bicycle, the 8S, in the company's current product line for consumers.

"We created the 3C to deliver a high-performance workout experience with less impact by combining the most popular cardio exercises--running, cycling and the elliptical trainer--into one incredibly fun to use product," said Bryan Pate, co-founder and co-president, ElliptiGO. "The riding experience is similar to that of our original 8S elliptical bike but at a lower price point, allowing us to reach more people with this new form of exercise. We are excited to continue growing the elliptical bicycle category as well as the community of ElliptiGO riders and enthusiasts." The ElliptiGO 3C retails for $1,799.

Key user experience elements include:
• High Performance, Low Impact - The elliptical motion of the ElliptiGO 3C closely mimics the running experience with all of the cardiovascular benefits and none of the impact
• Comfortable Riding - Users can customize the 3C frame and stride for the most comfortable cycling experience. The telescoping steering column is adjustable to accommodate riders of heights from 5'0" to 6'8", and the elliptical stride length can also be modified to accommodate different stride preferences and pedaling profiles
• Handling and Maneuverability - The 3C is designed to handle and maneuver similar to a conventional road bike. Riders can steer, turn, brake and ride smoothly on both flat terrain and mild hills
• Intuitive Movement - The 3C is powered by an elliptical or running-like movement that most active adults are already very comfortable with, allowing new users to become comfortable riding within a short period of time

]]> Key ElliptiGO 3C features include:
• Aluminum-Based - The drive arms and frame of the 3C are made from 6000 and 7000 series aluminum alloys selected for their light weight, performance and durability
• Customized Gearing for Performance on the Flats - The 3C is built around a Sturmey-Archer three-speed internally-geared hub that offers ElliptiGO riders who ride mostly in flat areas an ideal range of speeds. On the 3C, ElliptiGO riders can cruise comfortably on the flats at speeds of 12-15 mph or get a good training session in by pushing it to a max speed of 20-25 mph. Additionally, the three-speed gear range enables 3C riders to climb some hills (up to five percent grade inclines), making it a great workout tool in most environments
• New Colors - The 3C will be available in green, black and orange. Green and black are ElliptiGO's signature and most popular colors, while orange is a new color selected by popular demand from ElliptiGO customers who are looking for a color that is visible and safe on the road and has a sleek, high-performance feel

"We developed the 3C to enable anyone who is looking to train primarily on the flats to enjoy a fantastic workout experience at a lower price point. We were able to achieve this cost reduction without sacrificing a high-performance workout experience by tailoring the riding experience for flatter areas," said Brent Teal, co-founder, lead engineer and chief product designer, ElliptiGO. "As a result, the 3C is an accommodating elliptical bicycle that can support the needs of a wide range of users, from casual exercisers to elite athletes."

For more information on the new ElliptiGO 3C visit: www.elliptigo.com

Learn More About the Firecrest Rim Shape from Zipp

2011-05-04T02:52:20Z

For every rider, every discipline, and every ability level, carbon aero wheels truly make a difference. If you're looking to add to your advantage out on the bike course then check out the Zipp Firecrest 404 / 808 Tubulars or Carbon Clinchers. The radical Firecrest rim shape is more aerodynamic than any other rim design out there and at the same time it improves handling in crosswinds which improves the overall ride quality.

"This is a product that a lot of people have been waiting for, and we wanted to give them something unlike any other wheel on the market. We spent two years optimizing our carbon clincher technology and it's probably the biggest leap forward we've ever made." said Zipp Technical Director Josh Poertner.

More speed.
Discovered as we developed our carbon clinchers, Firecrest refocused our thinking from the front to the back of the wheel. Previous rim shapes were designed to smooth airflow coming off the tire, and tapered inward from the widest point of a toroidal bulge. But Firecrest rims have a less pronounced bulge and maintain a near-constant width almost all the way to the spoke bed. Without giving up the proven benefits of the toroidal shape, Firecrest is the first aero profile that effectively controls airflow around the back half of the wheel.

The performance benefits are substantial. With Firecrest, the latest 404 Tubular (58mm rim depth) matches the aero performance of the pre-Firecrest 808 (81mm depth). And the new 808 Tubular is faster than any competitor's 90mm rim.

See how the quest for the best carbon clincher in the world changed rim shapes forever in this video interview from Zipp.

]]> More stability.
During the design process, we realized that the advanced mathematics and massive computing power that helped us create a faster wheel could also help reduce the impact of crosswinds on handling. Using computational fluid dynamics (CFD), we've discovered subtle variations in rim shape that improve stability without increasing aerodynamic drag. By moving the center of pressure - the focal point of side forces on the rim - to its optimal location near the steering axis, Firecrest offers stable, predictable handling at every wind angle. In real-world conditions, Firecrest rims are markedly more stable than other rims of equal or even shallower depth.

More strength.
As we discovered with designs like the Paris-Roubaix-winning 303, a wider rim increases lateral stiffness for sprinting and cornering yet offers greater vertical compliance for more control, comfort, and durability on rough surfaces. The same holds true for Firecrest rims. In both tubular and clincher versions, the wider design better protects tires and places more rubber on the road while cornering without adding rolling resistance.

For additional information on the Zipp wheel product line with Firecrest technology visit: www.zipp.com/wheels/

Garmin Introduces its First Touchscreen GPS Watch, Forerunner 610

2011-04-12T14:49:49Z

Garmin the global leader in satellite navigation, today announced the new Forerunner 610 sports watch - a slim, yet robust and weather-proof touchscreen solution for serious runners seeking an extra advantage. Forerunner 610 can stand up to rain, sweat and splashes, and is responsive enough that it can be operated with running gloves. Forerunner 610 was announced in preparation for world-class marathons in Boston and London as well as the Australian fitness expo.

"Running with Forerunner 610 is like having a coach with you every step of the way," said Andy Silver, Outdoor and Fitness Product Manager. "From giving the basics such as pace, distance and time to monitoring your effort through heart rate, creating interval workouts and racing a friend on the other side of the world, Forerunner 610 becomes a necessary partner for all serious runners."

Now it is easier than ever to see how far, how fast and how hard you have worked. Forerunner 610 puts it all at your fingertips. Designed for the runner who is constantly seeking improvement, Forerunner 610 is Garmin's new flagship model. Forerunner 610's sleek stylish design complements the highly responsive touch screen and high resolution display. This innovative design has drawn praise from the International design community by winning the coveted Red Dot Design Award, the world's largest and most renowned design competition in a field of thousands of submissions from over 60 countries.

]]> Forerunner 610 uses a vibration motor for alerts such as heart rate, pace and distance when audible tones cannot be heard (heart monitor included in some bundles or available separately). With the heart rate monitor, Forerunner 610 also allows runners to track their training intensity via the new Training Effect feature. With the right information, it is not necessary to be a coach or sports scientist to help you train effectively. Training Effect measures the impact of exercise on aerobic fitness and lets you know how the workout improves your fitness during the workout.

UPDATE:
Without heart rate monitor:
Part Number: 010-00947-00
MSRP: $349.99 USD

With heart rate monitor:
Part Number: 010-00947-10
MSRP: $399.99 USD

Available: 2nd Quarter, 2011

In a true race against the clock, Forerunner 610 introduces Virtual Racer™. With this new feature, Garmin has an answer for every excuse- no more, "I could have beaten that time"- where runners can race themselves over their previous bests or against other users'. These can be taken from runs stored on the watch or downloaded wirelessly from the huge and expanding Garmin Connect™ running community (connect.garmin.com). Here users can quickly and easily log their workouts, track their totals, set goals, share workouts with friends and family and participate in an online fitness community of more than 50 million activities around the world. Garmin Connect displays metrics such as time, distance, pace, elevation and heart rate. This information is shown through charts, illustrations, reports and a variety of map representations including street, photo, topographic, and elevation maps.

Forerunner 610 is the latest breakthrough from Garmin, which has spent more than 20 years developing technologies and innovations to enhance users' lives, making Garmin a household name in the automotive, aviation, marine, wireless, outdoor and fitness industries. For more about features, pricing and availability, as well as information about Garmin's other products and services, go to www.garmin.co.uk, www.garmin.blogs.com and http://twitter.com/garmin. To watch step-by-step, feature-specific tutorial videos for Forerunner 610 and other Garmin products, visit the online learning centre at www.garmin.com/learningcenter.

Related Content:
- Garmin Forerunner 610 In Depth Review [via Ray at DC Rainmaker]

Giant Introduces XtC Composite 29er Mountain Bike

2011-04-06T12:20:51Z

Giant is releasing two models, the XtC Composite 29er 0 and the XtC Composite 29er 1, in the U.S. market first. The lightweight composite hardtail features innovative design and technologies for off-road riders and racers. Sometime to consider when choosing a mountain bike for an off-road triathlon or XTERRA race.

Following last year's successful launch of the Anthem X 29er full-suspension XC bike, Giant is introducing an all-new 29er bike for competitive XC racing and riding: the XtC Composite 29er.

Developed with input from Giant Factory Team Off-Road Team rider Carl Decker, the XtC Composite 29er is a hardtail featuring a host of innovative technologies that sets it apart from the competition. One look at the radically engineered Composite frameset reveals some innovative new thinking in the quest to produce a lightweight, race-ready, 29-inch-wheel hardtail.

"Riders told us they wanted a lightweight 29er that addresses some of the weaknesses people usually associate with 29-inch-wheel bikes," said Giant Global Off-Road Category Manager Kevin Dana. "With industry-leading experience and capabilities in composite engineering, Giant has been able to come up with some unique design solutions to best meet those demands."

The massive MegaDrive downtube reveals one of the frame's most distinctive features: asymmetrical design. The tube itself is offset in order to maximize stiffness, especially in the bottom bracket area, which uses Giant's PowerCore technology for maximum pedaling efficiency. Press-fit bottom bracket cups minimize weight, and extra-wide chainstays, which are also asymmetrically shaped, provide optimal power transfer and ample rear tire clearance.

]]> The XtC Composite 29er frameset also incorporates Giant's OverDrive tapered headtube (1 1/8-inch top, 1 ½-inch bottom) for front-end stiffness and sharp steering. Together, all of these features result in a frame that's light and stiff enough to race but with improved vertical compliance and handling characteristics that make it ideal for technical XC trails and marathon distances.

The Giant XtC Composite 29er 0 features SRAM X.9/X.0 components and a Fox F29 FIT RLC fork with a 15QR Thru Axle, tapered steerer, and 100mm of travel. The Giant XTC Composite 29er 1 features SRAM X.7 components and a Fox F29 RL fork with 15QR Thru Axle and a tapered steerer with 100mm of travel.

"I went to Giant with some of the things I wanted improved that have historically been weaknesses of 29ers," said Decker, who won the Downieville All-Mountain World Championship last year on Giant's Anthem X 29er full-suspension bike. "I wanted precise steering. I wanted it to be stiff in the bottom bracket and to accelerate with tenacity. I asked for a better race bike, and Giant came through."

The all-new Giant XtC Composite 29er bicycles are hardtail machines featuring radically engineered Composite framesets and a host of innovative technologies that set them apart from the competition. Read more about the bikes by clicking here. Both models are arriving at Giant retailers now. To find the Giant retailer closest to you, click here.

Related Posts:
- Selecting a Mountain Bike for Off-Road Triathlon - Part 1
- Selecting a Mountain Bike for Off-Road Triathlon - Part 2

Beat the Heat with Zoot Arm Cooler Sleeves

2010-07-22T14:15:22Z

The weather this first month of summer has been extremely warm and it seems that it's likely to continue... Here is a product that will help you stay cool on those longer distance triathlon events. It made its limited debut at the 2009 Ironman World Championship race in Kona and now it's available to everyone. Protect yourself from the sun and heat while staying cool with the new Zoot Arm Cooler Sleeves. Unlike Arm Warmers which keep you warm in cold conditions, these Arm Coolers are designed to keep you cooler in hot weather while out on the bike and run course.

The Zoot Arm Cooler Sleeves are made with Ice-Fil fabric, a multi step skin cooling technology. The cooling fabric thrives in hot and humid conditions with its moisture-absorbing properties. The fabric surface treatment absorbs heat from the body and blocks infrared rays from the sun, actually reducing skin temperature by 5°F / 3°C by converting sweat to a refrigerant. The sleeves are moisture-wicking, quick-drying, breathable and anti-bacterial, with measurable skin-cooling capability and built-in sun U.V. protection.

If you are fortunate enough to wear a long sleeve wetsuit on the swim, put these Arm Coolers on before putting on your wetsuit, that way you won't have to deal with putting them on after your swim. Don't worry if they get wet, the water will evaporate and give you a cooling effect. For non-wetsuit swims or with a sleeveless wetsuit, roll the Arm Cooler Sleeves into donut shapes, that way you can slip them on up to your wrist and then roll them up your arm.

Remember this, when things get hot out on your bike or run, make sure to stay hydrated and also pour water on the Zoot Arm Cooler Sleeve to experience the cooling effect.

MSRP: $35.00

]]> Features:
- Ice-Fil fabric
- Blocks Thermal Radiation from Infrared
- Dischard Thermal Radiation w/Xylitol
- Controls moisture and sweat
- U.V. Protection
- Moisture absorbing
- 2-way circulation
- Anti-bacterial
- Fast drying
- Hypo-allergenic silicone keeps the arm coolers securely in place

For additional details on the Zoot Arm Cooler Sleeves or to purchase a pair for your next triathlon race check out: www.zootsports.com/spring2010/product/arm-coolers

Selecting a Mountain Bike for Off-Road Triathlon - Part 2

2010-07-14T12:25:17Z

In the last post Selecting a Mountain Bike for an Off-Road Triathlon - Part 1 Professional Triathlete Cody Waite covered Suspension, Tire Selection and Wheel Size. Now in Part 2 Cody talks about what you should consider looking at when finalizing your selection of a mountain bike for your XTERRA or Off-Road triathlon. Specifically Gearing and overall Weight of the mountain or cross-country bike. These factors along with the previous three are factors that can help lead to success when choosing your bike.

Gearing: More Advanced Considerations
Having the right gear ratios when mountain biking is essential. Off the floor mountain bikes will provide all the gears (usually more than) you need to train and compete. Up until just a few years ago the standard gearing on a mountain bike was a triple ring crankset and nine speed cassette in the rear providing a massive range of gears that you may or may not even need or use. Over the last several years cross-country racers have began to adopt a 2x9 system that involves using a two-chainring configuration up front.

By using only two chainrings, often slightly smaller (more compact) than the big and middle rings found on a standard triple crankset, you can improve shifting performance, achieve more "useable" gear ratios, and save some weight. With the introduction of 10-speed rear cassettes for mountain biking, with even larger gear ranges, it is more possible than ever for intermediate level and even beginning riders to benefit from the two-chainring set-up on their mountain bikes. Now it is even becoming popular for some advanced riders to use only a single-chainring up front looking to save even more weight and keep things as simple as possible.

Weight: Light but Durable
When selecting a mountain bike for off-road triathlon racing the overall weight of the bike should be a top priority. Mountain biking involves riding up and down hills of all sizes, over obstacles, around tight corners with frequent braking and accelerations. The lighter your bike, the easier all of these techniques will be to perform. This being said, you never want to sacrifice strength and durability for lighter weight. This is especially true the bigger the rider is riding the bike, so be sure to maintain this strength-to-weight balance when making your bike and equipment choices.

]]> With the strength and durability needed to take abuse, along with suspension and bigger tires the weight of mountain bikes can add up quickly. Often the easiest and most effective area to shed extra weight is in the wheels and tires. Lighter wheels equal lower rotating mass which translates into less power required to move them. Other areas that are often "overweight" on mountain bikes are the saddle, the handlebars and stem, seatpost and pedals. For many, simply replacing these items with lighter ones can drop as much as 2-3 pounds from the weight of their bike with little to no loss in strength or durability. As a guideline, for the average-sized rider, a cross-country bike should fall in the 20-25 pound range.

Conclusion
With these tips in mind when selecting a mountain bike for off-road triathlon, be sure to demo and test ride as many bikes and/or parts as possible to find what works for you. Don't be afraid to think outside of the box and to and be willing to experiment a little to get that perfect fit and ride you are looking for. There are a lot of options out there and sometimes you don't know what's best until you find it. Good luck!

Author: Cody Waite, Professional Triathlete & Coach

About Cody Waite:
Cody is the founder of Endurance Performance Coaching and is passionate about endurance sports. He has raced Ironman and Ironman 70.3 races, multiple marathons and half marathons, off-road triathlons along with winter endurance sporting events. He currently races XTERRA triathlons and mountain bike races at the professional level. Cody has been coaching endurance athletes since 2003 and continues to develop his own philosophies on training through his own training as well as those he coaches.
www.epcmultisport.com

Related Posts:
• Selecting a Mountain Bike for an Off-Road Triathlon - Part 1

Selecting a Mountain Bike for Off-Road Triathlon - Part 1

2010-07-08T12:29:15Z

We got together with our friends at XTERRA and Professional Triathlete Cody Waite to bring you and informative two-part post on what you should look at when selecting a mountain bike for an off-road triathlon. Here are five factors that can help lead to success.

Part 1 covers: Suspension, Tire Selection and Wheel Size
Part 2 covers: Gearing, Weight and an overall Summary
(Look for Part 2 next week)

The bike leg of a typical off-road triathlon can make up over half of the overall race duration and often determines who will finish on the podium and who will finish at the back of the pack. Even more so than on-road triathlon, the bike leg in an off-road triathlon is critical to your success and the bike itself plays a big factor in this equation. Mountain bikes come in all shapes and sizes. Beyond fatter tires and flat handlebars there are several other factors to consider when selecting a mountain bike for off-road triathlon racing. The most important are:
• Suspension
• Tire Selection
• Wheel Size
• Gearing
• Weight

Suspension: Less is More
The majority of mountain bikes sold today are full-suspension mountain bikes, meaning both the front and rear wheels have some form of suspension travel. Suspension has many benefits including increased control and comfort as well as improved traction and less rider fatigue. The amount of travel found on mountain bikes ranges from 3 to 8 or more inches of travel. Suspension travel refers to exactly how much your wheels can move up and down when going over rough terrain. As travel increases in bicycle design the geometry of the bike changes as well as rider position and an increase in weight of the bike. Many experienced riders prefer a bike with only front suspension and no rear wheel suspension (aka hardtail) claiming the lower weight and no rear wheel movement provide a "racier", more nimble feel compared to a suspension bike. This is purely a personal preference however, as it is all but proven that a standard 26-inch wheeled full suspension mountain bike is faster and more efficient than a hardtail.

For off-road triathlon racing you want to stay in the "cross-country" category of mountain bikes which includes bikes in the 3-4 inch travel range. This category allows for enough suspension for the types of terrain found on off-road triathlon courses while maintaining an efficient rider position for climbing hills, riding technical single-track and fast downhills. The next category up in travel is referred to as the "trail bike" category which is the largest selling category of mountain bikes today with 5-6 inches of travel. Trail bikes can work for the occasional off-road triathlete but the added weight along with a shorter and more upright rider position make for slower climbing and acceleration while also making them less nimble for faster riding over varied terrain. Instead, choosing 3-4 inches of travel for off-road triathlon is the way to go.

]]> Tire Selection: No Tubes
The one word you should know is TUBELESS. This is the only option as far as cross-country and off-road triathlon racing goes, arguably the greatest advancement in mountain biking technology since the suspension fork. The tubeless tire setup has many advantages with pretty much no disadvantages (except maybe a little extra effort to install). The advantages of tubeless tires include the ability to run lower pressure, thus improving ride quality and traction, without the likeliness of pinch flatting a tube. Flats in general are limited to major tears in the tire since the sealant used with tubeless tires will seal most small punctures up to a quarter inch in size. Lower rotating weight can also be achieved if you can run lighter "non-tubeless" tires as tubeless with sealant. You can instantly drop 100 grams per wheel by removing the tube and replacing with two ounces of sealant. However if you are a heavier rider or ride very rough, rocky terrain you will want to stick with true "tubeless tires" that have reinforced sidewalls for greater protection and support.

Wheel Size: Is Bigger Better?
The big debate in cross-country mountain bikes these days is between wheel sizes. The long time standard 26-inch wheel versus the larger 29-inch wheel size. There are arguments for and against both and the official jury is still out. Either size works well for off-road triathlon racing. The 29-inch wheel is gaining popularity amongst both experienced riders and novices alike. The larger diameter wheels allow for better traction due to a larger contact patch with the ground as well as the ability to roll over trail obstacles with more ease while maintaining momentum. The larger wheel diameter performs similar to that of an inch or two of added suspension. A novice rider may find more confidence riding through technical terrain as it seems more manageable and requires less energy than a 26-inch wheel. Trade-offs with the bigger wheels are slower acceleration and increased weight due to the increase in mass of the larger wheels and tires.

If a 29-inch wheeled bike is selected, it is even more critical to keep the total weight of the bike in mind as they can become significantly heavier than a 26-inch bike. For this reason, many 29-inch riders opt for a hard-tail frame design (no rear suspension) to keep the weight down and "racier feel" high. It is becoming possible nowadays to have a 29-inch hardtail mountain bike under 20 pounds and even a full-suspension 29ʼer under 23 pounds, making 29ʼers quite possibly the ideal bike selection!

Felt B12, B16, S32 Bike Models Recalled

2010-06-30T23:15:40Z

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with Felt Bicycles have announced / initiated a voluntary recall of some Felt Bicycles. Consumers should stop using the recalled Felt Bikes immediately. NOTE: It is illegal to resell or attempt to resell a recalled consumer product.

Hazard: The bicycle's fork steer tube can break, causing the rider to lose control, fall and suffer injuries.

Incidents/Injuries: Felt Bicycles has received seven reports of the bicycle forks breaking. Minor injuries, including bumps and bruises were reported in one of the incidents.

Felt Bike Models Affected:
- 2009 Felt B12
- 2009 Felt B16
- 2009 Felt S32

The Felt Bike models listed and shown above were sold at bicycle specialty stores nationwide from October 2008 through May 2010.

What To Do:
Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled bicycles and contact their local Felt Bicycles dealer to receive a free inspection and repair. For additional information, call Felt Bicycles toll-free at (866) 433-5887 or (866) 4-FELT-US, or visit the firm's website at www.feltracing.com

]]> Additional Information:
- U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Press Release: Felt Bicycles Recalls Bicycles Due to Fall Hazard

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Trek Introduces Speed Concept Triathlon Bikes

2010-05-22T20:30:13Z

Waterloo, WI (May 22, 2010) -- Trek Bicycle, the world leader in bicycle technology and innovation, officially launched its highly anticipated Speed Concept line of Triathlon and Time Trial specific bicycles on Saturday against the backdrop of the Amgen Tour of California's Stage 7 Time Trial in Los Angeles. With its unprecedented aerodynamic profile, a host of new integrated technologies, and the most adjustability of any triathlon bike available, the all new Trek Speed Concept establishes a new benchmark of performance for triathlon and time trial specific bicycles.

"This launch represents the culmination of more than three years of design, engineering, and development," remarked John Burke, President of Trek Bicycle, to a crowd of more than 300 Trek retailers, international media, and industry VIPs. "The Speed Concept project is the most technologically advanced endeavor Trek has ever undertaken, and I'm proud to say it's resulted in the most advanced bicycle we have ever made."

Pivotal to the success of the Speed Concept line were three primary design parameters. "We set out to create the most aerodynamic bike ever designed, hide as much of the bike from the wind as possible, and make sure it fit the broadest range of athletes," said Trek Road and Tri Product Manager Tyler Pilger. "Trek thought of everything with this bike," said two-time Ironman champion Chris Lieto. "Just looking at the bike you can tell it's fast. Everything is hidden; cables, fuel, flat repair...everything I need to put up the best bike split on the course."

"When I ride this bike, I feel like I'm cheating," added World 70.3 Champion Julie Dibens. "It just doesn't seem fair to the rest of the field that I have this bike."

At the center of the Speed Concept's superior aerodynamics is Trek's revolutionary Kammtail tube shape. The Kammtail Virtual Foil (KVF) is the fastest, most aerodynamic tube shape ever produced for a bicycle.

"Kammtail does three things for the bicycle," said Doug Cusack, Advanced Concepts Engineer at Trek. "Basically, if you create a longer airfoil and truncate the trailing edge, it tricks the wind into thinking it is still full length, creating a virtual airfoil. The benefit is the virtual air foil effectively bends with crosswinds (yaw), maintaining its aerodynamic properties in all types of wind conditions."

]]> "The Kammtail design also allows us to create a tube shape that is stiffer and lighter than traditional aero designs, giving the bike more stability and better cornering," added Cusack. "This is by far the most aerodynamic bike the world has ever seen."

While the Speed Concept's KVF tube shape is responsible for the majority of its superior aerodynamic properties, Trek's engineering team made sure to take all sources of aerodynamic drag into consideration during its design.

"We didn't want to create a bike that was fast only in the wind tunnel under perfect conditions," said Pilger. "We wanted a bike that had everything tucked neatly into the frame design that a rider needs to race an Ironman. Hidden brakes, fully-internal cable routing, electronics, storage for fuel and flat repair, and even the skewer profile all create zero additional drag and an unprecedented aerodynamic profile." In addition to its unparalleled aerodynamic advantage, the Speed Concept line's versatility and adjustability help set it apart from the competition. With five unique sizes, six different stems, and more adjustability than the typical road bike, the Speed Concept line blends unmatched aerodynamics with the perfect fit for nearly every athlete.

Trek will offer the Speed Concept in three unique platforms in 2010, for a total of 12 models in all. As the pinnacle of triathlon performance, Speed Concept 9 Series models are manufactured in the USA from Trek's proprietary OCLV2 Carbon and are completely customizable through Trek's custom bike program, Project One.

To compliment the high-performance and fully-customizable Speed Concept 9 Series, Trek also introduced the Speed Concept 7 Series platform. Comprised of five models with MSRPs ranging from $2899 to $3799, the Speed Concept 7 Series incorporates the same revolutionary aerodynamic advantages of the 9 Series but is constructed using Trek's advanced TCT carbon.

"The only bike that measured faster in the wind tunnel than the Speed Concept 7 Series was the Speed Concept 9 Series," said Pilger. "The 7 Series offers amazing technology and an absolute best-in-class value."

Built with Kammtail tube shapes out of hydroformed aluminum, the 2 model offerings included in the Speed Concept 2 Series round out Trek's new Speed Concept line and represent the most technologically advanced entry-level triathlon bikes on the market today.

"We really wanted to create a line of tri-specific bikes with a model that's perfect for every rider," said Trek's Global Road and Triathlon Brand Manager Nick Howe. "The introduction of the 2 Series really cements Trek's dedication to the sport and our commitment to making best-in-class products available to every cyclist." For more information on Trek's all new Speed Concept line of bicycles, visit www.trekbikes.com/speedconcept.

Trek Bicycles are sold exclusively through Authorized Trek Retailers. To find the Trek Retailer nearest you, visit www.trekbikes.com.

About Trek Bicycle:
Trek Bicycle Corporation is a global leader in the design and manufacture of bicycles and bicycling related products and accessories. From Tour de France-winning road bikes to tricycles designed to introduce the next generation of riders to the possibilities of pedal-power, Trek has a bike for nearly every rider. Trek believes the bicycle can be a simple solution to many of the world's most complex problems, including obesity, traffic congestion, and climate change, and is committed to breaking down the barriers that prevent people from using bicycles more often for daily transportation, recreation, and inspiration. For more information about Trek, visit www.trekbikes.com.

# # #

Source : PRWeb

The New Zipp 404 Carbon Clinchers

2010-05-07T20:00:24Z

Zipp's First Full-Carbon Clincher Wheelset Features New Aero Profile and Materials

After two years of near-constant prototyping and refinement, Zipp carbon clinchers have arrived. Featuring a revolutionary aero rim shape and carbon materials found nowhere else in the world, the all-new 404 Carbon Clincher is the wheelset you've been waiting for.

Its Firecrest™ rim shape is the first deep-profile carbon clincher design to offer the superior aerodynamics, ride quality, strength, and handling of a wider rim body. Yet the 404 Carbon Clincher weighs just 1557 grams per wheelset, putting it among the lightest deep-profile carbon clinchers available. And like all Zipp carbon rims, the 404 Carbon Clincher is handmade in Speedway, Indiana.

To account for the differences in airflow patterns between clincher tires and tubulars, Firecrest employs a complex set of high-radius curves to adjust the width of the rim from 25.5mmm at the braking track to 27.5mm at the rim's widest point. This less tapered version of our proven hybrid-toroidal clincher rim shape particularly improves the aerodynamics of the rear wheel as it rotates within the frame. With Firecrest and Zipp's ABLC™ dimples, the 404 Carbon Clincher far exceeds the aero performance of any other clincher wheelset in its class.

As Zipp engineers have shown with designs like the Paris-Roubaix-winning 303 Tubular, a wider rim also increases lateral stiffness for sprinting and cornering yet offers greater vertical compliance for more control and comfort on rough surfaces. The same holds true for Firecrest rims with clincher tires. Because the hook beads are farther apart, the tire takes on a more stable shape. A shape that places more rubber on the road while cornering without adding rolling resistance. Increased air volume also reduces the likelihood of pinch flatting compared to narrower rims.

]]> Heavy, continuous braking on carbon surfaces can cause spikes in rim temperature, and clincher tires are more susceptible to the effects than tubulars are. To solve this challenge, chemists and engineers from our composites supplier made repeated visits to Zipp's R&D lab to test and refine a new heat-resistant resin based on the materials used in motorsports brake systems. Available solely to Zipp, this new technology resists heat for more consistent braking performance and tire pressure on long descents.

Naturally, we've chosen to launch our groundbreaking carbon clincher designs with our most versatile wheelset, the 404. Its 58mm rim depth is a classic all-around performer that has carried athletes to victory in every kind of event - triathlons, criteriums, breakaways, field sprints, even Grand Tour mountain stages. Now, the 404 is available with the convenience of clinchers, the light weight of an all-carbon rim, and the unrivaled performance of Zipp technology.

Like all Zipp carbon wheels, the 404 Carbon Clincher uses rims manufactured in-house by Zipp, premium Sapim CX-Ray spokes (16 front/20 rear), and US-made hubs with Swiss steel bearings.

Available now through authorized Zipp retailers around the world. Suggested retail price is $2700 U.S. per wheelset.

www.zipp.com/carbonclincher

Includes Zipp Steel Quick Releases, Tangente High Performance Cork Brake Pads, Zipp Rim Tape, and Valve Extender

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3T Ventus Areobar Recall

2010-03-26T15:13:47Z

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with 3T Design Ltd have announced / initiated a voluntary recall of all VENTUS LTD, Ventus LTD 17, VENTUS LTD Gold, VENTUS LTD Track, VENTUS TEAM and VENTUS TEAM 17 Aerobars. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

The two rubber hand grips on the Aerobars bars can loosen or slip off during use in humid, wet or salty conditions, posing a fall or injury hazard to the rider. Two incidents were reported to 3T involving adults with minor abrasions.

The recalled 3T Aerobars were sold at independent bicycle retailers and Internet retailers nationwide from January 2008 through November 2009 for about $1,200 for the LTD models and $1,000 for the TEAM models.

For information on how to receive a free redesigned rubber grip set and adhesive kit or information on how to bring your Ventus bar to a local retailer for a repair contact BikeMine toll-free at 1-877-861-9125 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday or visit 3T's recall web page at www.TheNew3t.com/VentusRecall

See the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recall detail here (Ventus Bicycle Aerobars Recalled by 3T Cycling Srl Due to Fall Hazard)