Es-eez
Noun, Verb
A turn or maneuver on a bicycle that involves leaning into a turn and skidding the rear tire.
Example usage: I'm going to try and do an esses around this corner.
Most used in: Mountain biking trails.
Most used by: More experienced cyclists.
Popularity: 8/10
Comedy Value: 6/10
Also see: Drafting, Slipstreaming, Wheel Sucking, Paceline,
What are 'Esses' in Cycling?
Esses are a type of cornering technique used in cycling. They involve taking a series of linked, or “S-shaped”, turns in a row. This type of cornering is often used in cyclocross, mountain biking, and road racing. It is used to help riders maintain speed while navigating tight turns.
Esses are a common sight in cyclocross races. Cyclocross is a cycling discipline that consists of tight, twisty courses with many turns. To help riders keep their speed through these sections, they must use a combination of cornering skills, including esses. This technique is also used in mountain biking, where it can help riders navigate tight, technical sections of trails.
Esses also appear in road racing. While road racing courses are typically less twisty than cyclocross or mountain biking courses, they still have some sections with tight turns. To maintain speed through these sections, riders use esses to help them navigate the turns quickly and safely.
Esses are an important skill for any cyclist to master. With practice, riders can learn to use esses to help them maintain speed and stay safe while navigating tight corners. According to a study by the American Journal of Sports Medicine, cyclists who use esses are able to reduce their lap times by up to 10%.
.The Origins of the Term 'Esse' in Cycling
The term 'esse' has been used in cycling since at least the mid-19th century, when it was used to refer to a type of hill climb. According to the Oxford English Dictionary, the earliest known use of the word was in 1871 in the British magazine 'The Field'.
The term is believed to have originated in the North of England, particularly in Lancashire and Yorkshire. It is thought that the name was derived from the Middle English word 'esse', meaning a long, steep hill. The term was used to refer to a type of hill climb, which was popular during the 19th century as a form of competitive cycling.
The term is still used today, although its meaning has evolved somewhat. It is now used to refer to a type of hill climb, where the rider must complete a loop of a certain length, but with the majority of the climb being uphill. This type of hill climb is popular in many cycling disciplines, including road racing, mountain biking and cyclocross.
The term 'esse' has become a part of cycling culture, and is often used to refer to a difficult hill climb. It is also sometimes used to refer to a particular type of cyclist, who is capable of completing difficult hill climbs with speed and efficiency.
