I'm doing my first triathlon later this year and was thinking of getting a tri bike - are they that much different?

I reckon a good set of aerobars would make a big differecne - but the biggest differecne is what your legs/heart have in them!

If you have a good road racing bike, then a set of aeros is really all you need - tri bikes are mostly for those with money to spend or races to win.  For the rest of us, the miles in your legs are what will make you faster!

Thanks for the advice -I've been checking out some aero bars.

Depends on your budget - aero bars are a good way to streamline yourself and save minutes on a 25m course...(really!!) They will take a bit of getting used to for your back so definitely do some loosening exercises before trying for a ride and make sure you do a few lengthy rides before you get to the triathlon itself - otherwise the run will be murder and you risk seizing some muscles!!

If you're into triathlons in a big way and don't mind sepnding a bit, a reasonable bike will set you back about £600 - £1000 and will lower the weight you're having pedal - believe me in a strong headwind you want to be pedalling as little weight as possible.

Good luck.