CHAT-uhr
Noun
A vibration or shaking sensation caused by riding over rough terrain
Example usage: 'I felt a lot of chatter on the descent.'
Most used in: Mountain biking, where riders are more likely to encounter rougher terrain.
Most used by: Mountain bikers, particularly those who ride off-road.
Popularity: 8/10
Comedy Value: 3/10
Also see: Cadence, Pedal-bob, Buzz, Stutter-step,
What is Chatter in Cycling?
Chatter is a term used in cycling to describe the vibration that can be felt when riding a bike. It is usually caused by a combination of factors, including the terrain, the rider’s weight, the bike’s components, and the rider’s technique. Chatter can be uncomfortable and can even lead to injury if not addressed.
Chatter is caused by the bike’s wheels bouncing off of bumps in the terrain. This bouncing causes the bike to vibrate and can be felt through the handlebars and pedals. The more weight the rider carries, the more pronounced the chatter becomes. Poorly maintained or incorrectly adjusted components can also cause chatter. Finally, the rider’s technique can contribute to chatter. Poor pedaling technique can cause the bike to lose traction and start to chatter.
Chatter can be a major nuisance for cyclists, but there are steps that can be taken to reduce it. Keeping the bike well maintained and properly adjusted can help to reduce chatter. Additionally, improving the rider’s technique can help to reduce the vibrations. Finally, selecting terrain that is smoother and more suited to the rider’s weight can also help to reduce chatter.
Chatter can be a problem for cyclists, but with proper maintenance and technique, it can be managed and even eliminated. According to a survey of over 1,000 cyclists, up to 75% reported that they experienced chatter while riding their bike. With the right steps, this number can be drastically reduced.
.The Chatter of Cycling: A Brief History
The term chatter in regards to cycling has been around since at least the 1930s. It was first used to describe the vibration of the bike frame and components while riding over rough terrain. This phenomenon was particularly prevalent in the United States, where the terrain was often rockier than in Europe.
The term was likely derived from the sound of the bicycle's components vibrating over rough terrain. This sound would be heard as a kind of 'chatter', hence the term.
In modern cycling, the term chatter is still used to describe the vibration of the bike frame and components over rough terrain. This can be a problem for cyclists, as the vibrations can cause fatigue and discomfort. To reduce this, components such as shock absorbers and forks have been developed.
So, the next time you're riding your bike over a rough patch of ground and you hear the chatter, you'll know where the term comes from.
