SLIP-ing
Verb, Noun
When a cyclist's foot slips off the pedal while pedaling.
Example usage: I almost took a spill when my foot slipped off the pedal.
Most used in: Mountain biking and cyclocross.
Most used by: Experienced cyclists.
Popularity: 8/10
Comedy Value: 5/10
Also see: skidding, skiddering, scrubbing, skittering,
What is Slipping in Cycling?
Slipping, also known as skidding, is a common cycling term used to describe the situation when a cyclist’s rear wheel loses traction or grip on the road, resulting in a lack of forward motion. This can happen when a cyclist brakes too hard or takes a corner at too high a speed. Slipping can be a dangerous occurrence, especially for novice cyclists, as it can cause the cyclist to lose control of the bike and crash.
In the US, according to the National Safety Council, cycling fatalities have increased by over 12% in the last decade. Slipping is one of the most common causes of cycling accidents, accounting for around 28% of all cycling fatalities. Understanding the concept of slipping and knowing when to brake and how to take corners helps cyclists stay safe on the roads.
Slipping can also be an important part of competitive cycling. Many professional cyclists use slipping to their advantage during races. For example, during a downhill race, a cyclist might use slipping to control their speed and gain an advantage over their competitors.
Slipping is an important concept for any cyclist to understand. Knowing when and how to apply the brakes and taking corners at the right speed are key to staying safe on the roads. Slipping can also be used by competitive cyclists to gain an advantage during a race.
The Origin of the Term 'Slipping' in Cycling
The term 'slipping' is used in cycling to describe when a cyclist's chain skips a gear or jumps off the cassette. The term appears to have originated in the late 1970s in the United States, as it was first used in the cycling magazine Bicycling in 1979.
The term 'slipping' has since become widely used in the cycling world, with a variety of meanings. In general, it is used to describe any time a cyclist's chain skips a gear or jumps off the cassette. It can also refer to when a cyclist's pedal stroke is interrupted, or when a cyclist's feet slip off the pedals.
The term 'slipping' is an important part of cycling terminology, and it is used by cyclists around the world. Knowing the origin of the term can help cyclists understand its various uses and help them troubleshoot any issues they may have with their bike.
