Bike for Biathlon?

Question

Okay, so I'm really into running and want to expand my horizons... and so I've signed up for a biathlon... with my supervisor... Now, I want to get a new bike (mine is a nice, but older Schwinn) but I don't know what would be the best to get... I was thinking of getting a hybrid... but I know they sell triathlon bikes... so I'm unsure...

I can spend around a grand... closer to $800ish... but if a bike is great, I don't mind going up a bit...

I'm also a 5'3", 27" inseam, and 110-115 lbs...

Answer 1

There are lots of great entry level bikes out there in your price range.  A couple of suggestions:

Figure out what you're going to use this bike for.  Just triathlons?  Group rides?  Do you want something you can commute on?  Try to imagine what you might want to use it for in the next year.

Go to AT LEAST two different bike stores.  Discuss the above information with someone working there.  Try AT LEAST two bikes at each store.

Think of it like buying a car.  Don't just get the first thing that "feels ok".  I've know lots of women who've done that, and they've all ended up regretting it.

In my opinion, the best thing to get is a road bike.  Get a good, comfortable frame.  Don't worry too much about expensive wheels and components now- you can always upgrade those later if you want to.

Also remember to get a good pair of bike shorts.  They will go a long way towards keeping you comfortable when you hit the road.  

Have fun!!!