Decoding Motorcycle Slang

Entering the motorcycle world is almost like entering a new country! There are so many foreign words and phrases that it can feel like another language. 2Brothers Powersports, located in Onalaska, Wisconsin, has rounded up some of the most commonly used terms along with their definitions below. Before you know it, you'll be fluent in motorcycle slang!

Parts Of Motorcycles

• Ape Hangers - Also known as apes, this term refers to a style of handlebars. Known for their exceptionally tall height, they are often found on cruisers. They aren't the most comfortable option, but they sure do boast plenty of style.
• Fairing - The parts of the motorcycle designed to improve airflow and reduced drag. Usually, this term refers to the windshield or bodywork. Without quality fairing, riders end up suffering from wind fatigue. Then they have to either cut their ride short or suffer through, exhausted. You want quality fairing to enjoy quality rides!
• Hack - Also known as a sidehack, this is another name for a motorcycle sidecar. Tell your buddy to hurry up and hop into your hack, so you can hit the road.
• Jugs - This describes the cylinder, which is a metal tube where the piston is found. 
  • Cooling fins are called air-cooled jugs.
  • Coolant galleries are called liquid-cooled jugs.
• Petcock - The fuel valve that allows you to turn on or stop the fuel from your gas tank to your carburetor.

Motorcycle Riding

• Apex - The center point of a turn. When you hit this correctly, you'll be able to carry your speed through the turn.
• Countersteering - The style of steering that motorcycles use. Riders must learn to counter the centrifugal forces pushing on them. Otherwise, they could tip over when they attempt a turn. Trikes and cars, in contrast, use direct steering where riders simply tilt the wheel/handlebars the direction they want to go.
• Ergonomics - You've probably heard this term before when talking about office chairs. With motorcycles, it describes how the parts are put together and how that relates to the rider's posture. When a rider fits well on the motorcycle, their bike has good ergonomics. 
• Hairpin - This describes a very tight turn. When your skill levels are high enough, it can be a thrilling experience to nail one of these. 
• Line - The expected path a motorcycle will take during a turn.
• Redline - The maximum number of revolutions per minute that an engine can hit before you start inflicting damage. Its name comes from the practice of manufacturers putting a red line on the bike's tachometer. 

Motorcycle Lifestyle

• AMA - This is the short version of the name American Motorcyclist Association. This group organizes several motorcycle-related events each year, such as races and rallies. It’s a great way to meet like-minded individuals, share your love of the sport, and try your hand at some competition. Members also enjoy services such as roadside assistance. The organization also lobbies to improve the lives of motorcyclists.
• ATGATT - This is a mantra of safe motorcycle riding. It means “All The Gear, All The Time”. You should always wear all your safety gear every time you hop aboard your motorcycle. That way, you'll be protected in the event of a crash. 
• Cage/Cager - How motorcyclists refer to a car and its driver. It's usually meant as a less than endearing term, often used to describe frustration at a distracted driver making the road unsafe to the motorcyclist.
• Hoon - Simply put, this is a short form of a hooligan. A hoon is an individual who tends to be antisocial while also a big showman. They are the riders out there disregarding safety techniques in order to show off. Don't be a hoon! 

In Closing

Now that you know some of the lingo, you’re ready to get on a bike of your own. For all your motorcycle needs, visit 2Brothers Powersports in Onalaska, Wisconsin. We offer everything from motorcycles for sale to parts and service options. We proudly serve those in La Crosse, Madison, and Eau Claire, Wisconsin.