DTU regulations

Preparing for a triathlon involves not only intensive training, but also the careful selection and configuration of your equipment. A crucial aspect of this is compliance with the German Triathlon Union (DTU) rules for your triathlon bike. These regulations ensure fair competition conditions and cover a wide range of components and attachments. So that you don't have any unpleasant surprises on competition day, we summarize the most important DTU rules for equipping your triathlon bike for races with slipstream restrictions (IRONMAN, as well as most other medium and long distance races).

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The basis: frame and attachments

In principle, any trim on the frame (including handlebars and seatpost) that is primarily intended to offer aerodynamic advantages is prohibited. However, the following are allowed:

• Wheels: There are no restrictions on the design here, so disc wheels are also permitted.
• container: Containers may be attached for drinks, tools, spare parts or food, as well as their attachments. It is important that they are made of unbreakable material. However, there are restrictions on the positioning of the containers, which we would like to discuss in more detail below.

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In focus: attachments for supply — bottles etc.

An important point is the rules for installing containers, in particular for the supply of liquid. Here are specific requirements for different areas of the bike:

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On the handlebars:

The installation of bottle holders and containers on the handlebars, in particular in the area of the handlebar attachment (BTA — Between-The-Arms), is permitted under certain conditions. Measured from the lowest edge of the elbow/arm rest, all attachments (except bike computer & bracket, handles, gearshift lifts) may:

• Reach a maximum of 25 cm towards the saddle.
• Build a maximum height of 20 cm
• Do not extend beyond the front point of the handlebar or armrest.
• Keep a minimum distance of 0.5 cm from the highest point of the front wheel.

Bottles installed on the handlebars may only have a total volume of 2 liters. It is not allowed to place body parts on the attached bottles/holders, etc. and the arms must not be covered from above.

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On the top tube:

Containers and bottle holders may also be attached to the top tube, subject to the following restrictions:

• Installation is permitted over the entire length of the top tube from the moving part of the steering head to the seatpost.
• The height of the attachment may not exceed 10 cm above the top edge of the top tube.
• The width must not exceed the top tube.
• When combined with moving attachments on the handlebar, a joint is required.

Here, too, no body part may be placed on the attachments.

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Behind the saddle (rear):

There are separate rules for installing bottle holders and containers behind the saddle:

• All attachments must be placed within an imaginary frame of 30x30 cm. Only bottles may extend beyond this frame.
• A maximum of two bottles with a maximum capacity of 1 liter each are allowed.
• Exception for integrated systems: Beverage systems integrated into the frame may exceed 30x30 cm and hold up to 2 liters as long as they do not exceed the vertical line through the rear axle. In this case, however, no further extensions may be installed in the rear area.

Compliance: Your Responsibility

As an athlete, you are responsible for ensuring that your triathlon bike complies with the current DTU regulations. Failure to comply with the rules can result in disqualification in the worst case scenario. It is therefore essential to familiarise yourself with the applicable regulations before every competition. The latest version of DTU sports regulations is the relevant source here.