Transition legally with KitBrix

As we start to ramp up the Triathlon season we take an in-depth look, with British Triathlon, at the NEW Transition Rules that KitBrix has fully supported. Due to KitBrix modular nature we are eligible for ALL transition requirements. We take a look at how the pros use their KitBrix in transition but more importantly how they use their kit to ensure they are ready before they even approach race day.

The Transition Rules explained!

The section of the British Triathlon Competition Rules that is most pertinent to transition is section 7.1.c, and detailed below:

Competitors should only bring into transition what is required. Boxes may be provided by the Event Organiser, any other boxes used to bring equipment into transition should be removed. A small soft-sided bag such as a rucksack may be used and remain in transition, though it must not impede the progress of another competitor.

(i) Competitors must place within 0.5m of their racking position in transition, or within the width of the bike handlebars, all equipment to be used at a later stage in the event.

(ii) All equipment already used must be deposited in that area.

(iii) Only equipment to be used during the competition can be left in transition.

(iv) All other belongings and equipment outside the above rules are to be removed before race start.

As you can see from the above belongings must be within 0.5m of their position, or within the width of the bike handlebars which make KitBrix the perfect solution as 1,2 or 3 but we would always recommend using 1 or 2 bags for your event as 40l is more than enough space for what you need. If you are unsure of packing lists and what you will need make sure you check out our Triathlon pack-lists and guidance on our site.

Transition tips from the professionals

Can KitBrix really help you? We always recommend taking a cycle and swim KitBrix into transition, saving on space and assisting you from car to transition area without balancing a box and keeping you free to hold or ride your bike. 

With a solid, flat base on the underside surface, KitBrix enables you to have all of your equipment ready on boggy wet ground, in front of you, giving you the confidence and ease of use on the day. With the amount of space that KitBrix gives you, you can comfortably fit your wetsuit and towel (if required) in the main swim compartment with race goggles and towel inside. With ALL cycle equipment in your cycle section (T2) you can relax knowing all your kit is in one place. We recommend using individual units everyday for training as one of the main advantages of using KitBrix is ‘training as you fight’ as they say in the military – using the same equipment in training as you do on the day aiding recognition and familiarisation.

Any items you need during the cycle should be attached to your bikes such as gels, and quick fix multi tools, as despite what other people do, real triathletes don’t give up on a puncture, It’s just part of the journey!

A word from our Pro Triathletes

We asked our Ambassadors Travis Bramley and Laura Siddall about their setup and any hints, tips they could provide!

(Travis Bramley British Youth Triathlon & Super Series Champion 2015 - @tbramleyt, Laura Siddall World Champion Pro Triathlete - @lmsiddall)

1. Be organised. When setting up transition, only take the essentials in with you. Anything you know you won't need, leave with family & friends or at home. This will help you get in and out of transition quicker with minimal fuss and stress! I have a laminated checklist in the clear pouch in the lid of my KitBrix.

2. Visualise. Transition can often be a busy and sometime confusing place on race morning. Make sure you know your swim exit, bike out & in and run out to help gain those precious seconds!

3. Practice! A great way to save easy seconds and even minutes of your time is in transition. Practice jumping on and off your bike, mounting and dismounting with your shoes already clipped in (very much an ITU style mount/dismount and probably for the more experienced). Good tip to use elastic bands to keep your shoes in a horizontal position to make this easy.  Practice running up to your kit and how are you going to put your sunglasses, helmet and shoes on quickly. What’s the best set up for you? For example, my sunglasses go inside my helmet, with the arms open so they can be put on straight away and then my helmet over the top.

4. Walk through transition. Familiarise yourself with the path you will take from swim to bike and out, and then from bike to run. Look out for something visual near where you bike and kit is set up, so that it’s easy to spot when you are running to your bike. For example, is there a tree that stands out, or count the number of fences, or is there an advertising sign near by that you can easily identify or a bright pink KitBrix!

5. Talcum Powder is a triathlete's best friend. Use it sparingly in your bike & run shoes to help slip your feet in easier & reduce the chance of mid-race rubbing. 

6. Setup your bike. Make sure your bike is set up in the right gear to start your race. If you have a hill out of Transition you probably want to start in an easier gear, so not struggling in the first few meters of the race when you try to pedal.

#keepittogether