Hair-pin cor-ner
Noun
A sharp turn in the road, resembling the shape of a hairpin
Example usage: 'Be careful when you reach the hairpin corner at the bottom of the hill.'
Most used in: Mountainous areas with sharp turns and curves.
Most used by: Mountain bikers and road cyclists.
Popularity: 8
Comedy Value: 5
Also see: hairpin turn, switchback, switchback corner, hairpin bend,
What is a Hairpin Corner in Cycling?
A hairpin corner, also known as a hairpin turn or hairpin bend, is a tight corner in cycling that requires the cyclist to make a 180-degree turn in order to continue riding. The corner is usually formed when two roads or paths meet at a sharp angle, making it look like a hairpin from an aerial view.
Hairpin corners are common in mountain biking and road cycling, and they can be quite challenging. Although the turn is quick, cyclists must slow down and make sure they are in full control of their bike. A hairpin corner can be a tricky maneuver that requires skill, practice, and good bike handling.
Statistics show that hairpin corners are some of the most dangerous parts of a bike ride. According to a recent survey, hairpin corners account for more than half of all bike-related injuries. Therefore, it is important for cyclists to slow down and take extra care when tackling a hairpin corner.
In conclusion, a hairpin corner is a tight turn in cycling that requires the cyclist to make a 180-degree turn. While these corners can be challenging and dangerous, with practice and good bike handling, they can be conquered safely.
.The Origins of the Term 'Hairpin Corner' in Cycling
The term 'hairpin corner' is used to describe a sharp, 180-degree turn in a cycling route. It is a difficult maneuver, and requires the cyclist to slow down considerably. The term was first used in the cycling world in the late 19th century in France, when the Tour de France first began in 1903.
The French term for 'hairpin corner' is 'lacet.' This term is derived from the French word for 'lace,' because the turn looks like a shoelace when viewed from the sky. It is believed that the first use of the term 'lacet' in the context of cycling was in the early 1900s.
Since then, the term 'hairpin corner' has become a staple of cycling lingo, and is widely used in motorsport and other cycling disciplines. It is still used today to describe the sharp turns encountered in cycling routes, and is a crucial part of the sport.
