Nickname for the plunger-sprung frames used on Norton machines from the late 1930s.
A set of gears.
The gear ratio is the relationship between the number of teeth on two gears that are meshed together and more specifically, is the ratio of the speeds of rotation of the initial and final gears in a gear train.
The amount of gravitational pull simulated during a period of high acceleration or a sudden change in direction. (Plural: G-Forces)
Type of forks common on early machines, comprising rigid beams attached to the steering head by parallel links that allowed movement.
Hand apparel covering all or part of the hand and fingers. Motorcycle gloves provide additional safety and protective features. They are usually constructed of a durable material, such as leather (or textile) and have reinforced palms to protect the rider’s hands in case of an accident. Motorcycle gloves may also feature padded protection for the knuckles and finger joints. (Click here for related information on motorcycle gloves.)
A rapid transition from a long downhill to a steep uphill causing the rider to experience G-Force at the bottom. Associated with dirtbike and motocross riding.
Established in 1949 by the FIM, it is the oldest motorsport World Championship that is still in existence. Competition is held in well over a dozen countries in 5 continents. Grand Prix motorcycle racing is currently divided into three distinct classes: 125 cc, 250 cc and MotoGP. Grand Prix is French, meaning “Grand Prize.”
A slippery racetrack.
A new road-racing course with no rubber on the surface, which can be slippery. “I had to be careful during that practice session because the track was really green.”
A motorcycle road event, usually several days in duration, in which the participants travel through the countryside and stop at a different destination each night. The implication is that you are traveling without time or distance constraints.
