The Bike
Some guy a few years ago, wrote a book about pure cycling titled "It's Not About The Bike" referring to a certain cycle event in France. When it comes to triathlon, I believe it definitely IS about the bike? Why? It's the longest distance you will cover in a triathlon, and while pedalling means you aren't smashing your legs on the pavement running, it's still very important to have done the work. More so, because on the run, you can walk if you have to, whereas I don't think I have ever seen anyone walking with their bike over their shoulder (unless it's near the end and they've had a gear malfunction...!).