bīk ræsh
Noun
The scrapes, cuts, and bruises that result from a cycling crash.
Example usage: He was lucky to escape without any bike rash.
Most used in: Cycling communities across the world.
Most used by: Mountain bikers, BMX riders, and other extreme cyclists.
Popularity: 8/10
Comedy Value: 4/10
Also see: Chamois Butt'r, Saddle Sore, Road Rash, Bike Tattoo,
What is Bike Rash?
Bike rash is a term used to describe the scrapes, bruises, and cuts that cyclists may experience due to falls or collisions while cycling. Bike rash is the result of contact between the cyclist’s skin and the ground, and can range from minor scrapes to serious abrasions and cuts. Bike rash is a common occurrence amongst cyclists, with a survey of over 2000 cyclists conducted by the British Medical Journal finding that over 75% of cyclists had experienced bike rash at least once.
This type of injury can be prevented by wearing appropriate protective gear, such as helmets, elbow pads, and knee pads. Additionally, cyclists should practice safe riding habits, such as avoiding distractions and following the rules of the road.
For cyclists who have experienced bike rash, it is important to clean the wound immediately and cover it with a sterile dressing. If the rash is more serious, medical attention may be required.
The Origin of 'Bike Rash'
The term 'bike rash' is used in the context of cycling to refer to the scrapes and cuts that can occur when a cyclist falls from their bike. The term originated in the United Kingdom in the late 1960s. It was first used as slang among cyclists to describe the wounds they received from tumbling off their bikes.
The term 'bike rash' is likely a combination of the words 'bike' and 'rash' and is related to the more general term 'road rash' which is used to describe the abrasions that can occur when a person falls from a moving vehicle.
