Triathletes: Beware of killer uncapped handlebar ends!

Cracking jokes about the bike-handling skills of triathletes is a hobby for some cyclists. Sure, it’s usually unfair and another manifestation of roadie snobbery. I’ve ridden with some triathletes who are among the most skilled cyclists that I know. Still, when I encounter triathletes I don’t know on the road, I approach them with extreme caution, especially if they’re hunkered down over aero bars. A recent article in Outdoor Athlete magazine has reinforced my trepidation about the sleeveless tribe.

I picked up the free publication at an outdoors store in Ann Arbor. When I scanned the contents page while waiting for a bus, one item immediately caught my eye: “Cycling for Triathlon 101,” written by Tim Josephs, a coach certified by USA Triathlon and USA Cycling, according to the magazine. I flipped directly to the story and found a list of six safety tips. The first one was obvious: Wear a helmet. Easy enough. The second one made some sense: “Do not wear headphones while riding – PERIOD!” I wouldn’t have made this my No. 2 tip, but maybe I’m underestimating the foolishness of newbies. The third item seemed really weird to me: “Handlebar ends must be capped on all styles of bikes.” Wait a minute. Is this really a problem? Are uncapped bars that big of a threat? Am I missing something? Strange.

I thought there would be some mention about the perils of riding with aero bars but oddly they didn’t make the list.

Here’s the list:

1. Helmets must be worn and fastened at all times during practice and racing.

2. Do not wear headphones while riding — PERIOD!

3. Handlebar ends must be capped on all styles of bikes.

4. When riding, always ride on the right side of the lane–unless road hazards warrant otherwise. When passing, give the, “passing on the left,” sign and give yourself a wide enough berth to prevent touching other cyclists’ bars or wheels.

5. Drafting when cycling is not permitted. You must maintain three bike lengths difference between you and the rider ahead. You have 15 seconds to make a pass and clear the area of the other rider.

6. If another cyclist wants to pass you, give the other rider room and don’t speed up; Wait until you are able to make a pass back instead of moving forward right away.