Time for a New Bike (or Not?)

We have all been there. The weather breaks. The days get longer. You have fallen in love with your bike all over again. Secretly, however, you are coveting your training partner's new tricked out Aero tri-bike weighing 14 pounds. Stop! You may not want to rush out and buy one. A 14 pound Aero bike is not the key to riding fast. Don't get me wrong. I am all for advances in technology.

I ride a really cool titanium bicycle. It is not exactly inexpensive. It is extra light. The frame material and design are advanced. However, it is basically a "traditional" bike. Double diamond configuration, two wheels of the same size, even round tubing. Are athletes fast because of the bike they ride or are bikes fast because of the athletes riding them? I think you know the answer. The fastest riders are fast because their bikes FIT and allow them to maximize their biomechanics, power output and aerodynamic position. Certainly, other factors are involved such as talent, confidence, genetics and hey, here's a thought, TRAINING. Of course, some bikes are better than others. No question about it. Some look cooler. Some handle better. Some are more comfortable. Some are lighter than others. Some are built better. Some will last longer. They say you get what you pay for. As far as quality, materials and design go, that is typically true. More money, however, does not mean faster bikes. The smart money is on a bike that fits well and won't fall apart. Let's not lose sight of the primary factor in our quest for speed. The engine.

Fortunately, engines can be tuned up and modified to run more efficiently and generate more power. The speed gained from training far exceeds that gained from an aerodynamic bicycle frame. More training does not mean more health and fitness. The factors determining what the optimal amounts and types of training are for each individual is far beyond the scope of this article. Quality training is the key. Do not mistake quality for "high intensity" or "high mileage". Quality training is any exercise that serves a specific purpose.

Where does this leave you in your quest for a new bike? Well, I am not going to tell you that buying a new bike is a bad thing to do. In fact, it can be one of the most enjoyable experiences of a triathlete's or cyclist's life (well, maybe not, but it can be a highlight of the week , month or year). Avoid falling for any "get fast quick" schemes. Health and fitness should always come first. When you start missing out on a podium place or personal best by a few seconds then train smarter. If you find that your training partner is still beating you by a nose, that new bike could be just what you need. Always make sure that the bike you are buying is available in a size and geometry that will fit your body measurements and the type of riding you will be doing. The best manufacturers offer a wide range of sizes and models that should meet your requirements.

Here are 5 good reasons to buy a new bike:

1. Your current bike does not fit properly and no stem length/saddle position combination will make it fit.
2. Your current bike is worn out, fatigued or no longer safe to ride.
3. You are serious about racing and your current bike weighs more than you do.
4. A new bike is going to motivate you to get out the door and train.
5. You are an adult and your current bike came with coaster brakes and a kick stand.

Here are 5 bad reasons to buy a new bike:

1. You've got eleven bikes and you want to make it an even dozen.
2. You don't want to be shunned when you take your bike to the local pro shop for a tune up.
3. To knock minutes off of your fastest times.
4. Your current bike color does not match the new spring fashions.
5. Your current bike keeps getting dirty and you want a bike to save for races only.