In the motorcycle community there are many different slang terms that new riders or experienced riders may not be aware of. This guide will briefly explain some popular terms used in the motorcycle community, so when you’re riding next, you will know the lingo.
“Crack It”
This slang phrase is popular among many bikers. The meaning is straightforward – to roll on the throttle or open up the throttle.
“Front Door”
When riding a motorcycle in a group with other motorcycles this phrase is used to describe the leader, or the first person in the motorcycle gang.
“Eat Asphalt”
This phrase is probably one you don’t want to hear. The basic meaning is a motorcycle crash which is why the word asphalt is used along with eat.
“Caning It”
When a biker rides a motorcycle in an aggressive manner, some will refer to this as “caning it”.
“Cat Walk”
There are many terms used to describe performing a wheelie on a motorcycle. One phrase is “cat walk”, which is when the front wheel leaves the ground. This is also the opposite of the slang term “endo”, which is basically a wheelie with the back wheel leaving the ground.
“Gear Ratio”
The phrase “gear ratio” is commonly used among bikers when talking about technical specifics about a motorcycle. Gear ratio is the ratio of how many teeth on the gears are connected at one time. For example, if there are 50 teeth and 25 are connected at one time, then the ration would simply be 2:1.
“Chicken Strips”
Almost all tires have tread, however, when tires get older and worn out they lose their tread. The slang term “chicken strips” refers to the remaining tread on the tires. If a tire has a lot of tread left it means the driver is a “chicken” and is not aggressive enough when taking turns.
Final Note
In the motorcycle community, knowing some slang terms will make you feel more at home in the community. Whether you’re new to the community or have been in it for a while, knowing these terms can only help in social situations.
