Topic: Should I purchase aerobars?

Dear Coach Phil,
I am new to triathlon and have just completed my second race. My swim is ok and I am comfortable on the run, but it seems everyone passes me on the bike. 
I have noticed most people have aero bars when they go by me. 
Should I consider putting aero bars on my bike if I don't want to keep getting passed? Do you have a specific bar that you recommend? 
Thank you for your response.
Elizabeth

Dear Elizabeth

Should you consider putting aero bars on your bike; yes!  Aero bars allow you to better maintain a position that is both more aerodynamic and more powerful.  Aero bars are however just a tool.  They do not by themselves �make you faster�.  Your overall aero position of which aero bars are a part allow you to maintain a given speed over a certain distance while utilizing less energy.  If you have two cyclist of equal talent pushing at the same intensity and wattage the one with the proper aero position will be able to maintain that status longer.  The longer you maintain a given speed the higher your average speed over a given distance and the less time it will take you to cover that distance.  IE. You will be faster.

When should you consider aero bars?  Aero bars require a bit of skill to use since your weight distribution will be changed to be a bit more weight forward and your hands will be further away from your brakes.  Both of these situations favor the more experienced rider.  I almost always recommend someone have at least 6 months riding experience before the consider aero bars.  You want to be comfortable with how your bike works and handles before you add any thing to it.  Also to insure that your weight distribution, handling, and comfort are not compromised you should consider a professional fitting at the time of your aero bar addition.

When it comes to which bars I recommend, I cannot give you any one specific brand or model.  In my fitting business many variable go into the decision as too which bars is best.  The overall position, the bike itself, Geometry,  flexibility, racing distances and experience are just part of what determines the right bar for you on your specific set-up.  I use different bars on different bikes even though I am the same.  These are the Clip-on bars I most frequently sell in order of volume.
Syntace Streamliner
Profile Carbon Stryke
Profile Split Second ZB
Syntace C2 ultralight
Profile Air Styke 2000

Good luck to you in your future triathlons and remember no piece of equipment can make up for training, it can only enhance your training.