Saddle Slang is sponsored by Rehook. Check out our tools, bike care and apparel

layn spliht

verb, noun

Lane Split: The act of riding between two lanes of traffic, usually to pass slower vehicles.

Example usage: I had to lane split to get to the front of the traffic line.

Most used in: Urban areas with heavy traffic.

Most used by: Commuting cyclists who need to move quickly.

Popularity: 8/10

Comedy Value: 3/10

Also see: Drafting, Wheel Sucking, Slipstreaming, Echelon Riding,

What is Lane Splitting?

Lane splitting is a term used to describe a cyclist's ability to ride between two lanes of vehicles. This is sometimes referred to as “filtering” or “white-lining” and is a practice that is common in many parts of the world. It is a maneuver that can be used to safely and efficiently move through heavily congested traffic and can help reduce the chances of being involved in an accident.

Lane splitting is a controversial practice in many countries, and is not legal in the United States. However, some states such as California have made lane splitting legal in certain conditions. In California, lane splitting is only legal when done at a speed of no more than 15 mph and when there is no more than a two-car-length gap between the cyclist and the vehicle in front of them.

Studies have shown that lane splitting is a safe practice when done properly. In a 2016 study by the University of California Berkeley, researchers found that lane splitting was associated with a lower risk of injury compared to other types of motor vehicle collisions. The study also found that lane splitting was associated with a lower rate of rear-end collisions.

Lane splitting is an important skill for cyclists to understand and can be a safe and effective way to get around in heavily congested areas. It is important to understand the laws in your area and to always practice safe riding habits when lane splitting.

.

The Origin of the Cycling Term 'Lane Split'

The term 'Lane Split' first originated in California, USA during the late 1990s. This term is used mainly in the cycling world and it refers to when a cyclist passes in between two cars which are side by side in the same lane. The cyclist is said to be 'splitting the lane' between the two cars.

The term has been in use ever since it was first coined and has become a popular part of the cycling language in California, as well as other areas of the world. It has been used to describe a wide variety of manoeuvres and techniques which cyclists use to pass through traffic.

The term 'Lane Split' is a useful way to describe a manoeuvre which is often difficult to explain in words. It is a term which has become widely used by cyclists and is now part of the language of cycling.

Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.

Saddle Slang

Find definitions for all of the technical terms, slang, and acronyms used in cycling. From the different types of bikes and their components, to training techniques, racing terminology and put downs, this dictionary has it all.

Talk the Talk
1 of 3

EXCLUSIVE OFFERS AND THE LATEST UPDATES BY EMAIL

FOLLOW THE NEWSLETTER