dee-sent
Noun
The act of cycling downhill.
Example usage: The best part of the ride was the long descent.
Most used in: Mountain biking, cyclocross, and gravel cycling.
Most used by: Experienced cyclists.
Popularity: 8/10
Comedy Value: 5/10
Also see: Descending, Downhill, Drop, Free-wheeling,
What is a Cycling Descent?
A descent in cycling is a section of a course that involves a downhill gradient. This is often the most exciting part of a cycling event, as riders can build up speed quickly and take risks on the way down. Descent sections can be found in both road racing and mountain biking events, and depending on the terrain can be extremely technical or relatively straightforward.
In road racing, descents are typically much faster than the uphill sections. On flat courses the average speed of a descent can exceed 50 km/h, while on mountainous courses it can be much higher. In mountain biking, the average descent speed is generally lower but the terrain is typically much more challenging, with rocks, roots, and other obstacles to navigate.
Descents are a key factor in winning cycling races, as riders have the opportunity to gain a significant advantage over their competitors. This is especially true in mountain biking, where a good descent can make the difference between winning and losing. The fastest descenders often come out ahead in the final standings, while those who struggle to stay in control may lose time.
Descents also provide an adrenaline rush for riders, as they can push their limits and take risks in order to gain an advantage. This makes them a key part of any cycling event, and a major attraction for spectators.
Exploring the Origin of the Word 'Descent' in Cycling Events
The term 'descent' has been used to refer to a downhill section of a cycling route since at least the early 20th century. It is believed to have been first used in the context of competitive cycling in France during the 1920s. The term was originally used to describe the downhill sections of a course during a race, typically featuring a steep slope and sharp turns.
The term 'descent' quickly gained popularity in the cycling world, and is now widely used to refer to any downhill section of a road or trail. Descent is also used to refer to the overall drop in altitude of a route, such as the descent from the summit of a mountain. The term has been adopted by cyclists as a term of endearment, with many riders referring to a particularly challenging downhill section as a 'brutal descent'.
The term 'descent' has been an integral part of competitive cycling for almost a century. It is now used to describe both the downhill sections of a route and the overall drop in altitude of a route. Descent is a term of both challenge and endearment for cyclists, and is sure to remain an important part of the sport for many years to come.
