New Road Bike and my first Ironman in 2026

Triathlon Forum
1

Hi all,

I’m looking for a new road bike, not a TT bike. I want something fun and exciting for general riding, long sportives, turbo sessions, and my first full Ironman in Austria (June 2026). To emphasise this point more, this is not a new bike JUST for an Ironman, it’s a bike I just want to buy and obviously will use for the event but also for fun too.

Current Setup

  • 2014 Giant Defy – works fine but uninspiring.
  • 40 years old, good health, ok fitness.
  • Done several sprints and one 70.3.
  • Goal is to finish and enjoy the Ironman, not race it.

Bike Fit + Shortlist

  • I have a bike fit tomorrow to confirm my ideal geometry and what to avoid.

  • I’m really drawn to the Pinarello X series – especially the X7.

    • It has an integrated cockpit, so aero bars can’t easily be fitted.
    • Mechanic said I could swap to a 2-piece bar setup pre-Ironman if needed (about 90 mins labour).
    • Question: How much would I miss aero bars on race day if I skipped them?

Other Bikes I’m Considering

  • Trek Domane
  • Canyon Endurace or Ultimate
  • Giant Defy Advanced Pro

Would love quick thoughts like: “avoid X, too sluggish” or “Y fits your purpose perfectly.”

Budget is £3k–£6k (~$4k–$8k USD).
Not chasing marginal gains - I just want something that feels great to ride and can handle big days out.

Appreciate any input!

2

Not as much as you’ll miss a better hip angle about 21km into a marathon.

4

On a flat course aerobars are the single biggest aero gain you can make, period. So if you are chasing performance, yes you will miss them.

5

Aero extensions would be a major difference in an Ironman. But if it is only the one race, then I would optimize around the ultimate road bike you love and enjoy the one race. I did a 70.3 with my totally non-aero road bike and had a strong split.

I love Pinarellos and think they are the most gorgeous bikes money can buy. My first racing bike was a steel Pinarello almost 30 years ago. The best bike decision I ever made. If you like one, then just buy it!