hayr-pin
Noun, Verb
Hairpin: a tight U-turn on a unicycle
Example usage: I attempted a hairpin turn on my unicycle, but failed.
Most used in: Unicycling circles, particularly in competitive events.
Most used by: Unicyclists who take part in competitive events.
Popularity: 8/10
Comedy Value: 5/10
Also see: Switchback, Serpentine, Hairpin Turn, U-Turn,
What is a Hairpin Turn in Cycling?
A hairpin turn is a sharp U-shaped turn in a road or trail that is typically found on steep mountain passes. Hairpin turns in cycling are often used to gain altitude quickly, allowing cyclists to reach the summit of a climb faster. They are also used to slow cyclists down on the descent, making them a popular feature in mountain biking.
Hairpin turns are often considered to be the most difficult turns to navigate in cycling. They require cyclists to quickly change direction and also require a great deal of balance and control. Statistics show that the average speed of a cyclist going through a hairpin turn is approximately 5-7 mph, which is much slower than the speed of cyclists on other parts of the course.
Hairpin turns are a great way for cyclists to test their technical skills and improve their overall cycling performance. They are also a great way for cyclists to add some excitement to their ride. Whether cyclists are going up or down a mountain pass, hairpin turns are sure to provide a thrilling experience.
The Origin of the Cycling Term 'Hairpin'
The term 'Hairpin' is used in cycling to describe a tight, 180-degree turn. The term first appeared in the United States in the late 1800s, when it was used to describe the sharp hairpin turns of the roads in the mountainous regions of the West.
The term was popularized by the first Tour de France in 1903. During the event, riders had to complete a series of sharp hairpin turns on the roads of the French Alps. The term has since been adopted by cyclists around the world to describe the challenging 180-degree turns they must navigate.
Today, the term 'Hairpin' is widely used in cycling to describe a tight, 180-degree turn. It is a reminder of the challenging turns that cyclists have been navigating for over a century.
