Tri-bars explained
CHRIS SIDWELLS Cycling Legends - GREG LeMOND A brief history of tri-bars and why they make such a difference to a cyclist in a time trial, so much difference that they are used universally today. The idea of fitting an attachment to standard dropped handlebars to give a more aerodynamic riding position was born in the world of ultra-distance cycling and was developed by somebody with a skiing background. Ultra-distance racers seek comfort as well as speed. In 1984, cyclist Jim Elliot rode to fourth place in the 4,800km (3,000 mile) Race Across America (RAAM) on a bike with centrally placed arm rests on its handlebars . That year's race winner, Pete Penseyres, adapted Elliot's idea, and in 1986 he competed with a handlebar attachment that allowed him to ride with his forearms supported and his hands extended centrally in front of him. At the same time Boone Lennon, the US ski team coach from 1984 until 1986 , was thinking about the way cyclists rode, and bringing his knowledge...