huhdz
noun
Handlebar covers on a bicycle.
Example usage: I'm going to replace my worn out hoods with some new ones.
Most used in: Mountain biking and road cycling.
Most used by: Cyclists who use drop handlebars.
Popularity: 8/10
Comedy Value: 2/10
Also see: drops, brake hoods, aero bars, ergo hoods,
Understanding Cycling Terminology: What are Hoods?
Hoods are the rubberized covers on the tops of the brake levers found on drop handlebars, also known as road handlebars, on a bicycle. The hoods are usually black and made of a rubberized material. They are designed to protect the riders hands from the elements and provide a more comfortable grip on the brake levers.
Hoods are an important part of the drop handlebar design and provide the cyclist with a more ergonomic position for their hands when riding. This is especially important for long distance cyclists and racers, as it allows them to maintain a more comfortable grip on the brake levers for extended periods of time. Statistics show that cyclists who ride with hoods are able to maintain a more consistent speed, as their hands are in a better position for controlling the brakes.
Hoods are an essential part of the drop handlebar design and provide cyclists with a more comfortable and ergonomic grip on the brake levers. They are also important for maintaining a consistent speed, as they allow cyclists to keep their hands in a better position for controlling the brakes. As such, hoods are an important part of the cycling experience and should be taken into consideration when choosing a bicycle.
.The Origin of the Term 'Hoods' in Cycling
The term 'hoods' is an old cycling term that refers to the rubberized or plastic hoods that cover the brake levers on a bicycle. The term was first used in the mid-1960s in England to describe the brake levers of a bicycle. It is believed that the term originated in the UK region of East Anglia, where cycling was popular among the working class.
The hoods were used to protect the brake levers from dirt and weather, and to make them easier to operate. They were also a useful way to differentiate between different types of bicycles. By the 1970s, the term 'hoods' was being used in the United States and other parts of the world.
Today, the term 'hoods' is still used to refer to the protective covers on bicycle brake levers. The term has also been adopted to describe the protective covers on other types of machinery, such as motorbikes and cars.