Similar to a double jump, except the void between the jumps is filled in with dirt, creating the table-top.
A gauge that measures how fast an engine is spinning. The measurement is usually expressed in revolutions per minute (See RPM). Also: “tach.”
What happens in rare cases when a motorcycle’s handlebars slap back and forth at high speed, often due to alignment or suspension issues.
A category of motorcycle accident where the rider runs head-on into the side of another vehicle. Usually, the other vehicle is a car that has turned left in front of the rider and the rider cannot perform an evasive maneuver or swerve to avoid the car and hits it straight on in the side. The car is the top of the “T” and the motorcycle is the vertical part of the “T.”
The point at which the crankshaft and piston are in their highest possible position. (Compare BDC).
Front suspension system on a motorcycle comprised of two fork tubes which contain coil springs. The tubes “telescope” up and down to absorb road bumps. This is the most common form of motorcycle fork commercially available.
Manual device fitted to the throttle of a motorcycle that applies friction to keep the throttle from moving. Used to temporarily give your hand a rest on long rides.
A single-cylinder, four-stroke motorcycle engine.
Tiered licensing is an insurance practice that restricts a rider’s operation of a motorcycle, based on its engine displacement.
Measurement of the exact instant when the valves open or close in an internal-combustion engine, or when the spark occurs. It is normally expressed in degrees or millimetres before TDC (see ignition timing and port timing).
Real racing tires work best once they’ve attained their high operating temperatures. Electric “blankets” wrapped around the wheels help speed this process, allowing the rider to start going fast sooner.
An auto, motorcycle, and commercial vehicle show held October-November in Japan. The event is hosted by the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association (JAMA), and is particularly noted for featuring concept vehicles from the manufacturers.
Refers to riding a motorcycle over 100 miles per hour
A unit of measure describing the twisting force, or leverage, an engine can exert on the rear wheel. Typically, an engine with a lot of torque will have the potential to speed up faster at lower RPM’s.
An engine ignition or lubrication system in which electricity or oil is used without being generated or recirculated. An ignition system that uses power from a battery without recharging it will eventually run the battery flat. A lubrication system that uses oil without returning it to a tank will run out of oil. Both systems were common on early motorcycles although two-stroke engines are current examples that use a total-loss lubrication system.
Organized events in which members of the public are allowed to ride motorcycles around established racing circuits. Criteria for being eligible to participate is usually the holding of a motorcycle licence and the payment of a fee.
The distance from the front axle’s vertical position on the ground, to the spot in front of it created by drawing a straight line from the angle of the forks. (Compare Rake). Trail is often cited as an important determinant of motorcycle handling characteristics.
A lightweight motorcycle for riding on trails and rough surfaces. Also known as a Dirt Bike or Off-Road motorcycle.
Keeping the brakes on late into a corner, after initial braking has taken place. A motorcycle riding and driving technique where the brakes are used beyond the entrance to a turn and are gradually released up to the point of apex.
In applying this technique, motorcycle riders approach turns applying both front and rear brakes to reduce speed. As they enter the turn, they partially release the brakes, as to keep only partial brakes throughout the turn. This will give more traction as the front tire is forced into the pavement.
This technique is commonly used when racing, but can enhance control and add more evasive options for street riders making it very worthwhile to learn or at least understand. Be aware that excessive trail braking can result in a loss of grip as the tire’s adhesion is split between braking and cornering forces. It will also noticeably affect the motorcycle behaviour (as in handling).
Adventure Touring Motorcycle
Motorcycle front suspension that is similar to the leading link design, except the layout is reversed: the links pivot forward of the axle.
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