Spin-ing out
Verb, Noun
Spinning out is when a cyclist's speed is too great for their pedals to keep up with.
Example usage: I was spinning out on the downhill section of the track.
Most used in: Cycling and mountain biking circles.
Most used by: Experienced cyclists and mountain bikers.
Popularity: 8/10
Comedy Value: 6/10
Also see: Cadence Surging, Skidding, Pedaling Out, Over-Gearing, Free-Wheeling, Over-Revving,
What is Spinning Out?
Spinning out is a term used in cycling to describe a situation in which the rider is pedalling too quickly for the gear he or she is using, resulting in the wheel slipping on the ground. This can happen when a cyclist is climbing a hill, or when the cyclist is pushing himself or herself beyond their limits in a race. It is an embarrassing situation for a cyclist, and can lead to serious injury if not corrected quickly.
Spinning out is caused when the cyclist is generating more torque than the gear can handle. This can occur when the cyclist is in a higher gear than is suitable for the terrain, or when the cyclist is pushing too hard on the pedals. In either case, the wheel will slip on the ground, making the ride difficult and dangerous.
The best way to avoid spinning out is to select the right gear for the terrain. When climbing a hill, the cyclist should select a lower gear, which will allow them to maintain a consistent speed without pushing too hard. When racing, the cyclist should select a gear that is appropriate for the speed they are travelling. This will help to prevent the wheel from slipping on the ground.
Spinning out is a common problem for cyclists, and is estimated to affect over one third of cyclists each year. It is important for cyclists to be aware of the risks of spinning out, and to take the necessary precautions to avoid it.
The Origin of the Cycling Term 'Spinning Out'
The cycling term 'spinning out' is used to describe the situation when a cyclist is pedaling at a very high cadence but is not achieving any more speed. It is thought to have originated in the early 2000s in the United States, most likely in the New England area. It is believed that the term was first used by professional cyclists whose high cadence was not translating into additional speed due to the terrain, or a lack of power.
The term has since been adopted by cyclists of all levels as a way to describe the feeling of pushing hard but not getting any extra speed in return. It is often used in a humorous manner, as a way to describe a difficult climb or a headwind. As cycling has become more popular, so too has the use of the term 'spinning out'.
