They are designed and built for one purpose – speed. Its riding position is even lower than road bikes and the rider is required to bend down on the bike when pedalling to minimise air resistance and create maximum aerodynamic. Since riding position is not comfortable, TT bikes are generally being used for shorter distance rides and races (10 – 40km).

TT bikes are popular with triathletes due to its speed and riding position, which minimise use of the quad muscles, saving them for running at the final stage of the race. But for most people, a good road bike with a clipped-on aerobar is more than sufficient to race.

Setup of a TT bike is very similar to a racer, with these distinct differences.

• Frame design – High saddle and shorter frame to move the rider well forward into an aerodynamic position.

• Gears – Two chainrings with even higher ratio than racers for high pace pedalling.

• Wheels – Some TT bikes come with deep rim or even disk rear wheel to minimise air resistance.

• Handlebar/Aerobar – Either clipped-on or one-piece bar that enable the rider to rest both their arms forward when pedalling to create aerodynamic position.

Pros…

• Speed – Designed to create maximum power transfer with minimum air resistance, it enables its rider to transfer all their power to the two wheels. A direct reflection of how much powers (watts) can your legs generate, probably the quickest human-powered way to go from A to B.

• Engineering – TT machines are like sports cars, tested in wind tunnel, fantastic to look at and run like a wind. It is almost impossible to find a “bad” TT bike.

• Riding skills and fitness – To ride at that position and gear ratio, you have to have confidence in your bike handling skills with the fitness to match.

• Female options – Because the popularity of triathlon amongst women sports enthusiast, TT machines are well catered for women.

Cons…

• Price – Needless to say, something so well engineered wouldn’t come cheap. An entry level TT bike will set you back at least £1,000 (US $1,700).

• Accessories and components – You may find yourself getting a pair of wheels that cost more than the bike itself, and that just to shave off a second from your personal best (PB).

• Riding position – since it puts so much pressure on the genitalia, it could create problems for women and especially men if riding long hours. It is not recommended to train on TT bikes in a regular basis.