snayk-byt
Noun
A combination of a flat tire and a puncture at the same time.
Example usage: 'Ugh, I got a snakebite on my last ride.'
Most used in: Cycling circles, especially in the UK.
Most used by: Recreational and professional cyclists.
Popularity: 8/10
Comedy Value: 5/10
Also see: Pinch flat, Double flat, Burrito, Taco,
What is a Snakebite in Cycling?
A snakebite in cycling is a term used to describe a situation when both tires on a bicycle go flat at the same time. This is usually due to a sharp object, such as a piece of glass, puncturing both tires simultaneously. It is one of the most common bicycle problems and can be very frustrating for cyclists, especially when they are in the middle of a ride.
Snakebites can be caused by a number of factors, such as poor road conditions, sharp objects on the road, or even an improperly installed tube. According to a recent survey, tire punctures are the most common bicycle repair problem, with more than 50% of cyclists having experienced a snakebite at least once in their life.
Fortunately, snakebites are relatively easy to fix. The first step is to locate the puncture in both tires. Once the puncture has been identified, the tires can be repaired with either a patch or a new tube. It is important to remember to check the tire pressure after the repair is complete in order to avoid further problems.
Snakebites may be a common cycling problem, but they can be easily avoided with proper tire maintenance. Regularly checking the tire pressure and inspecting the tires for any sharp objects can help reduce the chances of experiencing a snakebite. Additionally, cyclists should always be aware of their surroundings and be prepared for any potential hazards on the road.
.The Origin of the Term 'Snakebite' in Cycling
The term 'snakebite' in cycling has been around since at least the early 1970s. It was first used to describe the act of a rider squeezing their brakes too hard and skidding on the front wheel. This usually happened when a cyclist was descending a hill or mountain and the terrain was too steep or slippery for them to safely handle the speed.
The term is believed to have originated in the San Francisco Bay Area, California, USA, where the winding roads often featured sharp turns and steep hills. The term was likely coined by local riders who likened skidding on the front wheel to a snakebite, as the sudden loss of control and braking power was akin to being bitten by a snake.
The term has since been adopted by cyclists all over the world and is now used to describe any instance of a rider skidding on the front wheel. It is also used to warn other riders to be careful and not squeeze their brakes too hard when descending steep or slippery terrain.
