BLOK-ing thuh WAWL
Verb, Noun
Blocking the Wall is when a cyclist rides close to a wall or curb to make it difficult for another cyclist to pass them.
Example usage: 'I was trying to pass the cyclist in front of me, but they kept blocking the wall.'
Most used in: Urban areas with a lot of cyclists.
Most used by: Fixed Gear cyclists.
Popularity: 7/10
Comedy Value: 6/10
Also see: Drafting, Slipstreaming, Tucking, Pacelining,
What is Fixed Gear Cycling 'Blocking the Wall'?
Fixed gear cycling, also known as track cycling, is a form of cycling popular among urban cyclists. One of the techniques used in fixed gear cycling is 'blocking the wall'. This is a technique used to keep the bike from stopping when the cyclist stops pedaling. This is done by using the resistance of the wall or other surface to keep the pedals turning.
Blocking the wall is a technique used by experienced fixed gear cyclists to maintain their speed and momentum. This is done by maneuvering the bicycle so that the rear wheel is in contact with the wall. This is done by leaning the bike slightly so that the rear wheel is in contact with the wall and the front wheel is free to turn. This technique allows the cyclist to keep the pedals turning while they coast.
Blocking the wall is a useful technique for cyclists who need to maintain their speed on descents. It can also be used to maintain a steady speed when traveling on flat terrain. According to a survey conducted by BikeRadar, around 21% of fixed gear cyclists use the blocking the wall technique for long-distance rides.
Blocking the wall is a useful technique for fixed gear cyclists, but it should be used with caution. It is important to be aware of your surroundings and take care to avoid obstacles or other cyclists. It is also important to remember that blocking the wall can be dangerous if done incorrectly, so it is important to practice the technique in a safe environment before attempting it on the road.
The History of Blocking the Wall in Fixed Gear Cycling
The term “Blocking the Wall” is used in the context of Fixed Gear cycling to describe a specific riding technique. It involves the rider using their feet to brake and slow down the bike by pushing against the back wheel and blocking it against a wall or other object.
The origins of this term are not fully known, but it is believed to have originated in the late 2000s in the United Kingdom. It was popularized by the Fixed Gear scene in cities such as London and Bristol, where many urban cyclists had begun to use the technique to slow down their bikes.
The term “Blocking the Wall” is now used worldwide to describe this particular style of braking and has become a common technique among Fixed Gear cyclists. It is a useful skill to have and can be used to slow down quickly and safely in an urban environment.
