Cycling is a sport that takes place for leisure and also professionally, in high-performance competitions. Currently, the sport is divided into various disciplines, such as road cycling, mountain biking, track cycling, among others;
Each of these disciplines has its own particularities and specific terms that are essential for understanding and practicing the sport properly. With this in mind, we have brought you special content with the cycling glossary.
Each of these words is important both for practicing and for those who enjoy cycling as a leisure activity. So check out our cycling glossary!
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Cycling glossary: complete list
- Aerodynamics
- Altimetry
- Wheeling
- Road Bike
- Bidon
- Bike Fit
- Cadence
- Over
- Aerobic Capacity
- Cassette
- Time trial
- Chain wear
- Drop
- Endurance
- Road
- Frequency meter
- Gyro
- Gear group
- Interval
- Jersey
- Repair Kit
- Start
- Anaerobic Threshold
- Platoon
- Clincher tire
- Tubular Tire
- Aerodynamic wheels
- Saddle
- Single Speed
- Sprint
Cycling glossary: learn more about the terms
Aerodynamics
Aerodynamics in cycling is the study of how air interacts with the rider and the bike. Good aerodynamics are essential for reducing wind resistance, as they allow the rider to maintain higher speeds with less effort. Equipment such as helmets, tight-fitting clothing and bikes with an aerodynamic design are used to improve performance.
Altimetry
Altimetry is the measurement of variations in altitude on a cycling route. It is important to understand the difficulty of the route, as mountainous terrain requires more physical effort and strategy from the rider. Altimetric profiles are used in training spreadsheets and competitions.
Wheelie
Wheelie, or “wheel pulling”, is the practice of pedaling close to another cyclist’s rear wheel, thus taking advantage of the vacuum created to save energy. This technique is quite common in road races and training groups in order to maintain a constant pace with less wear and tear.
Road bike
The road bike is a type of bicycle designed to pick up speed on paved surfaces. It is characterized by thin tires, curved handlebars and a more aggressive riding position. These bikes are used for road cycling competitions and training.
Bidon
Bidon is the French term for the water bottle used by cyclists. It is made of plastic and designed to be easily accessible while cycling, fitting into the brackets attached to the bike frame.
Bike Fit
Bike fit is the process of adjusting a bicycle to the rider’s body measurements. It is used for comfort, efficiency and to avoid injuries. It involves adjusting the saddle, handlebars and pedals.
Cadence
Cadence refers to the number of complete revolutions the bicycle pedals make per minute. An adequate cadence is crucial for a cyclist’s efficiency, helping to maintain a sustainable pace without overloading the muscles.
Gearbox
The shifter is the system of gears that allows the rider to change the gear ratio by adjusting the pedal resistance according to the terrain. It consists of front and rear derailleurs, shift levers and the gears themselves.
Aerobic capacity
Aerobic capacity is the body’s ability to use oxygen efficiently during prolonged exercise. It is essential for cyclists, as greater aerobic capacity allows you to sustain an intense effort for longer.
Cassette
The cassette is the set of sprockets attached to the rear hub of the bicycle, allowing you to change gears. Cassettes vary in size and number of teeth, directly influencing performance and adaptation to different types of terrain.
Time trial
Time trial is a cycling discipline in which riders compete individually or in teams against the clock. The winner is whoever completes the course in the shortest possible time. Equipment and aerodynamic postures are crucial in this sport.
Chain wear
Chain wear is the natural wear and tear that occurs on a bicycle chain with use. A worn chain must be replaced to ensure transmission efficiency and prevent damage.
Drop
The term drop refers to the curved part of a road bike’s handlebars, allowing the rider to adopt a more aerodynamic position. It also makes it easier to change posture to relieve fatigue during long rides.
Endurance
Endurance is a cyclist’s ability to sustain physical effort for long periods of time. Endurance training is essential for athletes taking part in long-distance races, increasing aerobic capacity and muscular endurance.
Road
Road cycling is the term used for competitions held on paved roads. It is one of the most popular disciplines and includes famous events such as the Tour de France. Road bikes are specially designed for this purpose.
Frequency meter
The frequency meter is a device used to measure heart rate during exercise, helping cyclists to monitor and control the intensity of training, optimizing performance and avoiding overloads.
Giro
The Giro, also known as the Gran Giro, is a major cycling tour, like the Giro d’Italia. These multi-stage competitions are extreme endurance events, as they demand a lot of tactical skill and physical stamina from the participants.
Gearbox
The gear group is the complete set of transmission components, such as shifters, gear levers, chains and cassettes. Brands such as Shimano, SRAM and Campagnolo are the best known.
Interval
Interval training is a training session that alternates periods of high intensity with periods of recovery. This type of training is used to increase a cyclist’s aerobic capacity and power.
Jersey
Jersey is the jersey worn by cyclists, and is made of breathable, quick-drying materials. Professional team jerseys can have specific designs and colors, representing sponsors and countries.
Repair kit
The repair kit is a set of tools and parts that cyclists take with them to make emergency repairs along the way, such as inner tubes, patches, air pumps and wrenches.
Start
The start is the starting point of a cycling competition or training session. It can be controlled, as in time trials, or mass, where all the competitors start at the same time.
Anaerobic threshold
The anaerobic threshold is the point at which the body begins to produce lactic acid faster than it can be removed. Training close to the anaerobic threshold improves the ability to sustain intense efforts for longer.
Peloton
The peloton is the main group of cyclists competing together in a road race. Riding in the peloton reduces wind resistance and allows for collective strategies such as attacks and protections.
Clincher tire
A clincher tire is the most common type of bicycle tire, which uses an inner tube. It is relatively simple to install and repair and is a popular choice for amateurs and professionals alike.
Tubular tire
A tubular tire is a type of tire in which the tube is sewn into the tire and glued to the wheel. It is often used in competitions due to its reduced weight and ability to run at higher pressures.
Aerodynamic wheels
Aerodynamic wheels are designed to minimize wind resistance, allowing for greater speed. They are often used in time trial competitions and high-performance road races.
Saddle
The saddle is the seat of the bicycle. Its shape and adjustment are crucial to the rider’s comfort and efficiency, directly influencing posture and weight distribution.
Single Speed
Single speed is a bicycle with just one gear. This type of bike is simple, light and requires less maintenance, making it popular in urban environments and for strength training.
Sprint
Sprinting is a cyclist’s maximum acceleration, usually used at the end of a race to compete for victory. It requires explosive power and precise strategy to beat your opponents.
Cycling glossary: complete list
- Aerodynamics
- Altimetry
- Wheeling
- Road Bike
- Bidon
- Bike Fit
- Cadence
- Over
- Aerobic Capacity
- Cassette
- Time trial
- Chain wear
- Drop
- Endurance
- Road
- Frequency meter
- Gyro
- Gear group
- Interval
- Jersey
- Repair Kit
- Start
- Anaerobic Threshold
- Platoon
- Clincher tire
- Tubular Tire
- Aerodynamic wheels
- Saddle
- Single Speed
- Sprint
Cycling glossary
This was the cycling glossary, created for you to learn more about the sport’s main terms and understand how it works. Since you’ve come this far, take the opportunity to check out our other articles on the subject and acquire much more knowledge about the world of sport!
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