What bikes do para triathletes ride?
I · Intermediate · Swim, bike and run · 4 of 5The bike may be a bicycle, a tandem for vision-impaired athletes or a handcycle for wheelchair athletes, powered by arms or legs but not both. Each needs two independent brakes. Handcycles are at most 250 cm by 75 cm, with a mirror and eyes above the crank. Wheelchair athletes stop fully at the mount and dismount lines. No bike climb exceeds 12%.
How it works
- Machines: bicycle, tandem or handcycle.
- Power: arms or legs, not both.
- Brakes: two; on a handcycle both on the front.
- Handcycle size: 250 cm by 75 cm.
- Handcycle: mirror, eyeline above the crank.
- PTWC lines: full stop; touching brings a penalty.
- Adaptations: requested a month ahead with photos.
- Gradient: 12% at most.
The glossary has the bike (para triathlon), the handcycle (para triathlon), the mount and dismount stop (PTWC), the equipment adaptation, the course gradients and the PTWC1 and PTWC2.
Tricky cases
Can a handcyclist adjust the seat mid-race?
No.
The handcycle's front wheel touches the mount line. Penalty?
A time penalty.
Can a bike use both arms and legs?
No.
How is an adaptation approved?
Through the national federation, a month ahead, with five photos.
Why the rule exists
One power source keeps equipment comparable. The full stop at the line protects officials and athletes in tight transition areas.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| PTWC | Handcycle | 17.14 |
| PTVI | Tandem | 17.17 |
| PTS | Bicycle, adapted if approved | 17.12 |
From the rule book
World Triathlon, Competition Rules (2026, amendments to 29 April 2026), articles 17.12 and 17.14. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: World Triathlon Competition Rules, Section 17.