Time Trial Tips

The silly season is just around the corner and the evenings are lengthening. From the feedback at the club meeting the other night there will be a few changes to the time trial league and the format. We will try to make it more inclusive for all members and that might include some varying distances and relay events. Anyway watch this space.

My main reason for some ramble is to advise some of the newcomers on how to gain some free SPEED. There might be some learning for are older members based on some of the photos from last years events.

There has been a huge amount of members buying time trial specific equipment that is very expensive and might intermediate some members into thinking they need a expensive time trial bike. By all means if you have excess cash in your pocket and like nice looking shinny carbon equipment buy some new wheels and a triathlon specific bike to save yourself a minute or two.

There is a few simple things you could do for a lot less money that might save you some time and a lot of money. So here is my opinion on the best bang for your buck.

Correct Fitting Aero Bars

1. Using aerobars that allow you to get into a tuck position will be the cheapest thing you can do for the aerodynamic benefit. You can get a set of aerobars for €100 and they’ll save you a couple minutes in a 40km TT. I would recommend that the extensions should not go beyond your brake hoods. Profile Jammers are a perfect example of a short tri bar that will allow you get into a reasonable position on your road bike. A lot of other brands have similar products

2. A good bike fit. The main purpose is to get the best out of your current equipment and to reduce your frontal area. A good bike fit will hopefully also make you more comfortable and also increase your power output. A good bike fit should correct your cleat position and make you pedal more efficiently while in the aero position.

2 Getting a skinsuit will provide massive benefits. A standard skinsuit will cost €70-100. You’ll realize large gains with a standard skinsuit as well. How many people are turning up with loose Jerseys, jackets etc that are flapping in the wind causing drag. Drag slows you down. An alternative is to get a tight fitting base layer and use your tri suit. Just make sure its skin tight and it will make you slippy

3 Shoe covers

Shoe Covers will cost you no more than €20 and could save you half a minute over 40kms. Shoe covers smooth turbulent air over the straps and buckles of the shoes. They also make ya look fast.

4. Upgrading from a regular helmet to an aero helmet could save you over a minute for a €100 spend

So before going out to purchase a new time trial machine or a disk wheel or deep rimmed wheels I would spend my money wisely and try and pick up all of the above. The cost maybe 300 yo yo. In my opinion better value for your money.


Keep an idea on the timetrialingforum or ebay for bargins. You might do it for a lot less