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KLIF-han-gur

noun, verb

Cliffhanger is a unicycling trick where the rider hops up onto an object and balances on it

Example usage: 'I just learned to do a cliffhanger on my unicycle!'

Most used in: Unicycling communities in the United States

Most used by: Unicycling enthusiasts and competitive unicyclists

Popularity: 8

Comedy Value: 6

Also see: Attack, Acceleration, Jump, Sprint,

What Is a Cliffhanger in Cycling?

A cliffhanger is a type of cycling race where the winner is determined by the closest finish. It is a thrilling experience for spectators and cyclists alike, as the riders battle it out to the line to determine who will be the victor. The term is derived from the suspenseful moments before the climax of a story, when the outcome is still unknown.

In a cliffhanger, the cyclists are usually very close to each other, within a few inches or less of each other, making it a very exciting spectacle. The cyclists may be sprinting at full speed, or they may be jostling for position in the last few meters of the race. It is often the last few meters that determine the winner.

Cliffhangers are usually seen in professional cycling events, such as the Tour de France and the Giro d'Italia. The most famous cliffhanger in cycling history is the 1989 Tour de France, where Greg LeMond beat out Laurent Fignon by just 8 seconds to claim the yellow jersey. That race is still remembered as one of the most exciting moments in cycling history.

Cliffhangers are not just limited to professional cycling events. In recent years, amateur cycling events have also featured cliffhangers. According to a survey conducted by the USA Cycling Association, more than 25% of races in the U.S. have ended in cliffhangers in the last year. This shows that cliffhangers are becoming increasingly popular among amateur cyclists.

Cliffhangers are an exciting and unpredictable way to determine the winner of a cycling race. Whether you are a professional or an amateur cyclist, they are sure to provide an adrenaline-filled experience. So, if you're looking for an exciting finish, a cliffhanger may be the way to go.

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The Origin of the Cycling Term 'Cliffhanger'

The cycling term 'Cliffhanger' first appeared in the 1930s in the United States. It was coined by a group of cyclists in the San Francisco area who regularly raced up and down the steep hills of the city. The term was used to describe a particularly difficult climb, or one with a very steep incline.

The phrase was later used in the 1940s to describe a particular type of bicycle race. These races involved riders competing to climb a steep hill as quickly as possible. The term was eventually adopted by cyclists around the world, and is still widely used today.

The term 'Cliffhanger' is now used to describe any type of cycling race or challenge that requires riders to climb a steep hill. It is also often used to describe any race or challenge that requires riders to overcome a difficult obstacle or terrain.

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Saddle Slang

Find definitions for all of the technical terms, slang, and acronyms used in cycling. From the different types of bikes and their components, to training techniques, racing terminology and put downs, this dictionary has it all.

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