Triple chainring on Tri bike?

colinleclair

I'm considering buying a used 98' Kestrel 200 Ironman Limited Edition with Ultegra 6500 double chainring setup and original shifters (which I've heard have been problematic or fall apart quickly). I'm wondering what the +'s and - 's are of switching out to a triple chainring setup - I'm in SF, California and ride pretty hilly courses/races. What other equipment will I have to change out with this? Any advice?

Also, the price is $1650 (negotiable) for the bike with HED Jet Deep wheelset for racing, and Mavic CXP-30 training wheels, and a Tricosports Ironcase Travel Case.

Other bike specs:
- Monocoque Carbon Frame – 54cm, unrivaled performance, wining history, “Kona Blue” color
- EMS Carbon Fork – Legendary design, featherweight, sweetest handling, color matched
- Cranks (172.5mm, 53/39T)
- Rear derailleur (9 speed)
- Front derailleur (braze on)
- Brakes (dual pivot)
- Bar-end shifters (light action)
- Profile Aero Bars – Aero mounts, adjustable armrests, comfortable padding
- Profile Fast Forward Seatpost – Forward position, smoothes transitions, accommodating length
- Selle Italia Mythos Seat – Anatomical cutout, leather cover, perfect padding
- Control Tech Stem – Functional elegance, machined aluminum, great welds
- Dia-Compe Brake Levers – Bar-end, lightweight, color matched
- Avocet 45TT Computer – Thirteen functions, dual display, new battery
- Goodies – Recent cork bar tape, brake pads and cables; dual water bottle cages

Would someone let a rookie know if you think I'm getting a good deal here? Thanks a lot.