On 2/22/03 1:36 PM, in article, "brent" wrote:
> I'm a marathoner looking to change things up a little bit. I know nothing about tri's so here are
> my first fewbie questions.
>
> 1. Obviously every tri is not an ironman legnth event. What are the common distances? Which of
> these are finishable by a reasonably trained newbie in 5 hours or less?
Your first question is easiest. Common distances (in reverse order):
Ironman: 2.4 mi swim, 112 mi bike, 26.2 mi run
1/2 Ironman: 1.2 mi swim, 56 mi bike, 13.1 mi run Olympic: 1500 meter swim, 40k bike, 10k run
Sprints: These vary the most, they usually fall somewhere around 500-800 yd swim, 10-20 mile
bike, 3 mi run
As Frank noted, you'll find exceptions to every rule.
You'll get lots of debate about finishing times, but for an average, middle of the pack newbie a
sprint will generally take somewhere between 1 and 1.5 hours depending on distance. An olympic will
fall somewhere around 2.5 to 3 hours.
For 1/2 IM and IM, times of 6 and 12 hours respectively are considered an accomplishment for an
average athlete. (I'll say again, I'm generalizing here - so no flames please).
Most people recommend starting with a sprint event, but with your running background there is no
reason why you couldn't go longer if you feel comfortable on the swim and bike.
> 2. Ballpark - how much should I expect to lay out for my first tri bike?
Depends on whether you really mean "Triathlon Bike" or simply a bike you can use for a triathlon.
You can find a nice, entry level road bike for around $1000. A true triathlon bike will typically
run a little more - starting around $1500 (and their usefulness is a hotly debated topic). Of
course, if you want to track down a used bike, you could find a servicable one for $300. It all
depends on what you're after.
One piece of (often repeated) unsolicited advice. No mater what kind of bike you buy, or whether it
is new or used. Find a good local bike shop that knows how to properly fit a road/triathlon bike and
pay them to do it. (Hint: standing over the top tube and checking clearance under your crotch is NOT
the right way to fit a bike). This is a whole different thread, but a properly fitted bike will save
you a TON of pain and suffering later.
If you tell us where you live, someone in the group may be able to recommend a shop.
Welcome to the club - have fun.
John
>
> Thanks in advance.
>
> Brent
