<P> Since the cyclist in a time trial is not permitted to draft ( ride in the slipstream ) behind other cyclists , reducing aerodynamic drag of the bicycle and rider is critical . One difference between a time trial bicycle and a road bicycle is the use of triathlon handlebars or aerobars . The main part of the bullhorns curves forward ( like a road handlebar ) , but where the road handle bar curves down , the time trial bar ends . This provides a low tucked position that is aerodynamic while providing good stability . The time trial bar also uses a `` clip on '' bar or aerobar which attaches to the main bar near the stem and provides a position where the hands and fore - arms are close together , low and forward , providing a very aerodynamic ( though less stable ) position . The aerobar became popular when Greg LeMond made up 50 seconds to defeat Laurent Fignon ( the race leader ) in the final stage ( and final time trial ) of the 1989 Tour de France . Time trial races tend to be much shorter than road races , so comfort is less of an issue . Also , control of the bike is less important , since there is little chance of bumping another rider and the courses tend to be less technical with little hill climbing , turns or descents . </P>
<P> Since the cyclist in a time trial is not permitted to draft ( ride in the slipstream ) behind other cyclists , reducing aerodynamic drag of the bicycle and rider is critical . One difference between a time trial bicycle and a road bicycle is the use of triathlon handlebars or aerobars . The main part of the bullhorns curves forward ( like a road handlebar ) , but where the road handle bar curves down , the time trial bar ends . This provides a low tucked position that is aerodynamic while providing good stability . The time trial bar also uses a `` clip on '' bar or aerobar which attaches to the main bar near the stem and provides a position where the hands and fore - arms are close together , low and forward , providing a very aerodynamic ( though less stable ) position . The aerobar became popular when Greg LeMond made up 50 seconds to defeat Laurent Fignon ( the race leader ) in the final stage ( and final time trial ) of the 1989 Tour de France . Time trial races tend to be much shorter than road races , so comfort is less of an issue . Also , control of the bike is less important , since there is little chance of bumping another rider and the courses tend to be less technical with little hill climbing , turns or descents . </P>
difference between road bike and time trial bike
difference between road bike and time trial bike
the use of triathlon handlebars or aerobars
the use of triathlon handlebars or aerobars