New to the time trial bike

Hello. My transition pro is on its way (kind of) to the LBS. I'm excited but also a little leery about the whole thing. I really like time trials and thought I would buy this bike to be on the right bike when I compete. I've never been on a bike with elbow rests (okay, so i think that is funny but watch who you say that to because some do not feel the same way - gah!). Well, so do any of you have any tips for getting used to the bike, etc? I'll have the bike by the end of this month and the first TT on May 7. A month to get used to the position. I do not really know what questions to ask, but any advice is appreciated. I'm not new to cycling or road racing...but on a TT bike? noob.:rolleyes:

Hi,

They're aerobars, not elbow rests ;)

If you can, ride the bike on a trainer stand while you get used to the new position. When you are ready to get onto the road, find a nice straight road with little traffic. The first time I rode the aerobars on the road I almost lost control of the bike.

Good luck.

Nicole

also be aware that the aerobar position will make you feel a bit unstable since it puts a bit more weight on your shoulders, makes steering feel a bit unsteady, and makes you a bit front wheel heavy as well. You need to work on your core strength so that you can support a bit more weight through your torso and help keep your weight centralized and low. Also practice getting into and out of them from various positions on the handlebar and especially if you have a panic stop and have to sit up to body wind break and grab the brakes at the same time.

Although I am not a time trialist I love my aerobars for long steady distances against the wind, and because the "elbow pads" give me yet another hand position for upright riding when my wrists are sore or tired.

good luck and enjoy the experience.

Thanks for the replies, they've helped already. I'll start improving my core now (if only I could get that exercise ball to inflate to its full potential! :( ).