Quote Originally Posted by Runner13
Well, I mean, it was only a practice TT, but it was my first one, so I'm sure it was good for me.
The very cool thing about a TT is that anytime you decide to ride one, it is as if its the real thing, because ultimately a TT is about you and beating your self. You can't really have a practice road race, because you cannot emulate (when on your own or with friends) the pressure you are under in a pack.
Don't underestimate your achievement in this "practice" - you did well...


Quote Originally Posted by Runner13
About looking for a TT bike - it's hard not to buy EVERYTHING that has to do with biking! Yeah, my boyfriends been trying to get me to get some aerobars, but I'm not sure. I think I'll be just fine on my road bike until I get quite a bit faster.
The single biggest improvement to your speed will be aero bars... more than wheels or booties or an aero helmet...

Plus you don't need a TT specific bike to have aeros or to race in a TT using aeros. You can just slap them on your current bike.

Try a few out at your LBS - there are quite a few different styles and prices. Buy ones that feel comfortable for you... not because they are the ones that some pro-cyclist uses. We bought several pairs second hand and tried them out before settling on something that was good.

They will take a while to get used to, as they change your balance. Don't start using them on bends, down hill or in a cross wind.

Just remember if you are riding with others, don't use your aero bars at all - you are not allowed to use them in a pack in a road race.


Quote Originally Posted by Runner13
Anyway, I loved it, even though I was a little hesitant about it at first. I liked it because I was alone and didn't have to worry about any other riders!
This is one of the reasons that switched me on to TTs - I am only responsible for myself. However, I love the ability to get in a rythym and really focus and just dig in and churn out the power (as limited as that is ). Racing in a pack involves concentrating on what others are doing, and surges and attacks...

Have fun, Runner... where-ever in the cycling smorgasbord you land, its a fab sport.