Triathlons are one of the most challenging races that involve 3 popular sports combined in one race. These sports include cycling, sprint, and swimming. While the latter two sports don’t have many obstacles to nutrition replenishments, cycling is where you need to drink water to stay hydrated. However, you cannot simply pull out a regular water bottle during the cycling leg and quench your thirst.
In a Hurry? Here are the Top Choices
What you need is the best hydration system for bike legs to keep yourself well-nutrition and focused on the race. Therefore, we have created a list of the 5 best hydration systems for triathlon bikes. These hydration systems won’t steer your focus away from the race and keep you hydrated at all times.
The 5 Best Hydration Systems for Triathlon Bikes
When you invest in buying a triathlon bike, you can’t shy away from purchasing a triathlon hydration system as well. However, you can’t just pick out a random hydration system for triathlon bikes and expect it to fit your bike. Therefore, we have tested multiple hydration systems for triathlon bikes to pick out the best ones.
1. XLAB Super Wing Black
XLAB is the undisputed king in the rear-mounted hydration system for triathlon bikes. The wide variety of bottle mounting positions by XLAB can make any triathlon bike rider purchase this triathlon-friendly rear hydration system. The only downside of this amazing hydration system is that it doesn’t come with a cage for holding a bottle which adds to additional cost. Regardless, the XLAB rear-mounted hydration system is the lightest on the list, and your top priority should be minimum weight strapped to your bike so that you face less friction while paddling.
Moreover, the XLAB hydration system is modular, meaning you can add or subtract options according to your needs. This feature makes XLAB one of the best rears mounted hydration systems for triathlon bikes, and it’s a number one choice among triathlon participants.
Key Features
- Modular system
- Lightweight
- 3 mounting positions
2. XLAB Mini Wing 105 Rear Hydration System
One of the best features of a rear-mounted hydration system for triathlon bikes is the ability to hold multiple bottles. This is great if you want to keep your water separate from nutrition or have a bottle to cool off during the race. Needless to say, the XLAB mini wing 105 has an excellent grip, lightweight design, and a stylish look. Additionally, the XLAB mini is made from Xenon nylon, making it more lightweight than the XLAB Super wing. Moreover, this read hydration system for triathlon bikes comes with a cage to secure your water bottles tightly.
Key Features
- Extreme lightweight
- Durable material
- Ergonomically design
- Holds multiple bottles
3. Profile Designs Aeria Bicycle Hydration Drink System
Profile design is one of the top two brands of triathlon hydration systems, and their products have proved their worth multiple times. With exquisite design, sturdy material various bottle positions, the Profile Designs Aeria is the best front mounted hydration system for triathlon in the market. Additionally, the Aeria bicycle hydration system has an 857ml capacity with a no-splash refill port. If you are looking to ace your bike leg and stay hydrated, this hydration system is best for you, because it’s front-mounted in a torpedo position to make it convenient for cyclists to reach their drink.
Key Features
- Torpedo Style
- Study design
- Magnetic straw fastener
4. Profile Designs FC35 Bicycle Hydration Drink System
Profile designs have made another appearance on this list, but this time for cyclists who need more hydration. With an overwhelming number of hydration systems for triathlon bikes that have 20 – 24oz volume, the FC hydration system has a 35oz capacity. It is also a self-contained hydration system mounted on the front like a torpedo. Although it’s not a flagship hydration system, it still has many robust features.
One of the most frustrating features of a torpedo-style hydration system is that the feeder tube never seems to stay put. Thankfully, the FC35 is one of the hydration systems with an adjustable feeder tube according to the cyclists’ style. Finally, this hydration system is ergonomically designed, and it fits perfectly on every triathlon bike.
Key Features
- Easy to refill
- Multiple straw positions
- It has a large capacity
5. XLAB Aero TT
The XLAB Aero TT takes the crown once again, but this time, in the category of frame-mounted hydration systems. What makes this hydration system for triathlon bikes unique is that it’s 50% lighter than most other frame-mounted ones. Moreover, the Aero TT is a complete system that comes with a mount and a cage. However, it’s not a preferred choice among most triathlon cyclists because the bottle included is not easy to squeeze.
Key Features
- 50% lighter than most frame-mounted hydration systems
- Aerodynamic shape
- It has a carbon cage
Our Final Thoughts
The best hydration system for triathlon bikes is one that suits its rider’s needs. There is an overwhelming number of hydration systems, each with a unique shape, build quality, and features. Choosing the best one can become challenging for most beginners. Nevertheless, our triathlon hydration systems mentioned above can help you make an informed decision.
When choosing a triathlon hydration system, you must consider your riding style; only then will you be able to decide whether you need a rear-mounted hydration system or a front. However, the decision becomes easy once you practice cycling for a bit and notice where your hand can easily reach.
