Blog / Triathlon Gear
Best Triathlon Bikes 2026
Cervelo P5 and P-Series TT bikes for Ironman and triathlon racing
Our Top Picks
The Quick Answer
For serious Ironman racing, the Cervelo P5 Frameset ($6,000) is the gold standard—it's won more Kona titles than any other bike. For a complete, ready-to-race bike with premium components, the P-Series Force AXS ($8,500) delivers exceptional value. Best entry point? The P-Series 105 ($3,950) gives you race-winning aerodynamics at an accessible price.
Our Picks at a Glance
| Bike | Best For | Type | Groupset | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cervelo P5 Frameset | Pro Racing | Frameset | Build your own | $6,000 |
| P-Series Force AXS 1x | Top Spec Complete | Complete | SRAM Force eTap | $8,500 |
| P-Series 105 Di2 | Electronic Shifting | Complete | Shimano 105 Di2 | $5,700 |
| P-Series 105 | Best Value | Complete | Shimano 105 | $3,950 |
| P-Series Frameset | Budget Build | Frameset | Build your own | $2,400 |
Why You Should Trust This Guide
Glen
Endurance Athlete & Gear Enthusiast
Triathlete with experience from sprint to Ironman distance
I've raced on triathlon bikes from multiple manufacturers and spent countless hours researching aerodynamics and fit. This guide focuses on Cervelo because they dominate professional triathlon for good reason—their engineering, fit options, and race-proven performance are unmatched.
Every bike in this guide has been evaluated based on aerodynamics, handling stability over long distances, fit adjustability, and real-world performance data from professional racing.
Best Pro-Level: Cervelo P5 Frameset
The Ironman World Championship Winner
Cervelo P5 Frameset
The most successful triathlon bike in history. Wind-tunnel optimized, integrated storage, and proven at Kona.
The Cervelo P5 has won more Ironman World Championships than any other bike—both in Kona and Nice. This isn't marketing; it's data. Professional triathletes choose the P5 because it delivers measurable aerodynamic advantage over 112 miles of racing.
The P5's integrated storage system lets you carry nutrition without adding drag. The geometry positions you for sustainable aero power output while preserving your running legs. Available as a frameset, you can build it with your preferred components.
Why It's Our Pro Pick
- • Most Kona wins in history
- • Best-in-class aerodynamics
- • Integrated storage system
- • Excellent long-distance stability
- • Wide range of fit options
The Tradeoffs
- • Frameset only—add build costs
- • Premium price point
- • Requires pro fitting
Best Complete Bike: P-Series Force AXS 1x
Ready-to-Race with Premium Components
Cervelo P-Series Force AXS 1x
Complete bike with SRAM Force eTap AXS wireless shifting. 1x drivetrain for simplicity and aerodynamics.
The P-Series Force AXS 1x is the complete triathlon bike for riders who want top-tier components without building from a frameset. The SRAM Force eTap AXS groupset provides flawless wireless shifting—critical when you're in the aero position.
The 1x drivetrain eliminates the front derailleur for cleaner aerodynamics and simpler operation. With a wide-range cassette, you'll have all the gears you need for any Ironman course.
Best Electronic Shifting: P-Series 105 Di2
Electronic Shifting at a Reasonable Price
Cervelo P-Series 105 Di2
Electronic Shimano 105 Di2 shifting brings effortless gear changes at a mid-range price point.
The P-Series 105 Di2 brings electronic shifting to a more accessible price point. Shimano's 105 Di2 provides the same precise, button-press shifting as their flagship groupsets. On a TT bike where you can't see your shifters, electronic shifting is transformative.
Best Value: Cervelo P-Series 105
Race-Winning Aerodynamics at an Accessible Price
Cervelo P-Series 105
Complete triathlon bike with reliable Shimano 105. The same P-Series aerodynamics at the lowest price.
The P-Series 105 is the smartest choice for most triathletes. You get the same aerodynamic frame as the more expensive builds with reliable mechanical Shimano 105 shifting. For $3,950, you have a race-ready triathlon bike that will serve you from sprint to Ironman.
The money you save can go toward a proper bike fit, race wheels, or entry fees. Never underestimate how far mechanical 105 will take you—it's the workhorse groupset of the triathlon world.
Also Great: P-Series Frameset
Cervelo P-Series Frameset
P-Series frameset for custom builds. Bring your own components for a personalized setup.
For riders with components from a previous bike or wanting to build piece by piece, the P-Series frameset at $2,400 provides the same excellent aerodynamics. Swap your groupset over and you're racing.
How to Choose
Pro/Kona Qualifier: Cervelo P5. Maximum aerodynamics, race-proven performance.
Complete Ready-to-Race: P-Series Force AXS 1x. Premium components, wireless shifting.
Electronic Shifting: P-Series 105 Di2. Best value for electronic shifting.
Best Value Complete: P-Series 105. Most bike for the money.
Custom Build: P-Series Frameset. Bring your own components.