hayr-pin drop
Noun
A steep and sharp descent on a mountain bike trail.
Example usage: I'm looking forward to the hairpin drop on this trail!
Most used in: Mountain biking trails, especially those with extreme descents.
Most used by: Mountain bikers and downhill cyclists.
Popularity: 8/10
Comedy Value: 4/10
Also see: switchback, hairpin turn, hairpin corner, hairpin descent,
What is a Hairpin Drop in Cycling?
A hairpin drop in cycling is a sharp, technical descent that typically features a 180-degree turn. This type of descent requires a high level of skill and control to navigate, and it is often found on mountain biking trails. It is also sometimes used as a challenge in road cycling events.
Hairpin drops can be a thrilling experience for cyclists, as they require quick and precise reactions to navigate the tight turns. However, they also come with certain risks. The sharp turns can be difficult to handle, and it is not uncommon for cyclists to lose control and crash.
According to a 2017 survey by the League of American Bicyclists, a hairpin drop was the most common cause of injury for cyclists. Over half of the survey respondents reported having had a crash due to a hairpin drop, and the most common injury reported was a broken collarbone.
Hairpin drops are not for the faint of heart. They require a high level of skill and control to navigate, and even experienced cyclists can find them challenging. However, with enough practice and experience, anyone can master the hairpin drop and enjoy the thrill of a technical descent.
The Origin of 'Hairpin Drop' in Cycling
The term 'hairpin drop' is used in cycling to describe a steep downhill section of a road. It is thought to originate from the turn of the 19th century when bicycles became popular in Europe. The term 'hairpin drop' is believed to have been first used in the French Alps, where some of the most famous cycling routes were located.
The hairpin turn was usually found on mountain roads, which were often narrow and steep. The steepness of the road was likened to the shape of a hairpin and so the term was coined. The term was used to describe the descent of the road, which was often long and winding, and hence the 'drop'.
The term 'hairpin drop' has become an integral part of cycling culture and is still used today to describe a steep, winding descent. It is a testament to the history and evolution of cycling, and to the ingenuity of cyclists who first used the term.
