Transition - How does it work?
Transition is the area that is set out to hold your bikes and kit for the three stages of the race. You will use this area twice, once to change from your swim to your bike, and the second time from your bike to your run.
London has the biggest transition in the world - so it is worth preparing for it.
Before you go to transition you should ensure that the following has been done:
- Your race numbers have been attached to your bike and helmet.
- You are wearing your security wrist band and that the number on it matches the numbers on your bike and helmet.
- Your bike and helmet comply with BTA rules{www.thebritishtriathlon.org}.
Racking your bike - Top Tips!
- Leave your bike in a high gear for smooth bike out!
- Make a note of which rack your bike is in - these will be labelled
- It is your own responsibility to know where your bike is.
- Study the 'ins' and 'outs' of Transition, so you know where to enter and exit
- You are not allowed to just 'leave' your bike anywhere in the transition area.
For a basic plan of transition and an explanation of its design click on the link at the bottom of the page.
Transition one – swim to bike
Your wetsuit should be off and in a plastic bag. Make your way to your racking spot. Place your wetsuit by your bike and put on the kit required for the bike leg.
A few key points to remember:
- Ensure your main race number is placed on your back for the bike leg.
- Make sure your helmet is clipped on; you can receive a helmet violation and receive a time penalty.
- Do not get on to your bike until you cross the 'Bike mount line'
Transition two – bike to run
When you have finished the cycle leg of the race, you will approach the transition area and the marshals will slow you down. There will be a dismount line marked, and you must be off you bike before you get to this line. You can get a time penalty if you go over it.
Follow the procedure below:
- Walk the bike through the transition, remember the route you planned!
- Do not remove your helmet until you have racked your bike. Don’t even undo the clip; you could gain a time penalty.
- Rack the bike and then take your helmet off.
- Take off your bike shoes and put your trainers on. Lace locks or elastic laces will reduce the amount of time it takes for you to put your trainers on.
- Make sure your race number is on your front.
- Head to Run Out
Post Race – Collecting your kit
When you have finished racing you will need to re-enter transition to remove your belongings.
Do not remove your security wristband before you leave transition with your bike and all your kit. If the number on your wristband does not match the one on the bike you will not be allowed to leave transition with that bike.
When collecting your belongings make sure that you are not picking someone else’s kit by mistake. It is very easy for kit to get mixed up - you should always double check you have the right equipment.
NB: If other people are racing while you are collecting your gear please ensure that you show consideration and always allow them priority access.
