Bicycle a key component to successful racing
Whether a Huffy or a Specialized, bikes are a critical component in a triathlon and it’s important for athletes, no matter their age, to keep their machines in tip-top shape to provide optimum performances say the mechanics from Pro Bikes and Run.
Located on Fort Couch Road in Bethel Park, the store helps sponsors some of the local kids triathlons. The company was on hand at the South Park Kids Triathlon held July 15 and offered pre-race inspections.
“Mostly we see mal-adjusted brakes,” said Josh Turner. “Usually, the brakes are too loose. You have to adjust them properly.”
Lubricating the chain, regularly, with the right products and keeping tires inflated at the proper pressure are two other maintenance checks that operators can and should perform before a ride or race. The quality of bike will also enhance one’s performance.
“If he’s competitive, then consider getting your child a better bike,” said Greg Ellis of Pro Bikes + Run. “They are inherently faster than the single-speed bikes and are better for performance.”
Ellis noted that you can tell the competitive athletes from those that are just participating for fun.
“They have a different attitude,” he said.
He noted quickly, “it’s fun to win. It’s human nature. If you continue not to place, then you will lose interest. We all want to be recognized.”
Ellis recognized both the importance of equipment as well as exercise.
As a child ages, he often grows out of a bike. Ellis noted that Pro Bikes offers a trade-in program on bicycles so parents can “continue to get their kids bikes.”
“It’s a safety issue,” he added.
Having a “good time” is also a big issue.
“For kids, it’s good for them to get out of the house and off the couch and away from the gaming.”
An event like a Kids Triathlon, he added, “allows all to participate and meet like-minded people.”