UN-duh-RY-ding
Verb
Riding a bicycle too slowly in a group ride.
Example usage: 'Don't be an under-rider, keep up with the group!'
Most used in: Group rides in urban areas.
Most used by: Commuter cyclists.
Popularity: 8/10
Comedy Value: 3/10
Also see: Drafting, Slipstreaming, Tucking, Pacelining,
What is Under-Riding in Cycling?
Under-riding in cycling is a dangerous situation that occurs when a cyclist is overtaking a motor vehicle on the right side. In essence, the cyclist is “under-riding” the vehicle, which means they are riding in the driver’s blind spot where they cannot be seen. This is a dangerous situation because the cyclist is not visible to the driver and can easily be hit or run over.
Under-riding is a major cause of cycling accidents and fatalities. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2017, 783 bicyclists were killed in motor vehicle crashes in the United States. Of those, 22% were due to cyclists being hit from the side by a motor vehicle. This shows the importance of avoiding under-riding situations.
In order to stay safe while cycling, it is important to practice defensive riding techniques. This includes staying out of the blind spots of drivers, using hand signals to indicate your intentions, and always wearing a helmet. By following these simple steps, cyclists can avoid dangerous under-riding situations and stay safe while on the road.
The History of Under-Riding in Cycling
The term “under-riding” is used in the context of cycling to describe the act of riding a bicycle close to a vehicle in order to reduce drag and improve speed. The term is thought to have originated in the late 1960s in the United States, and was popularized in the mid-1970s by the American cycling community.
The concept of under-riding was originally developed in the US by cyclists who were looking for ways to gain an advantage on the road. By riding close to a vehicle, cyclists could reduce the amount of wind resistance they faced while also taking advantage of the vehicle's slipstream. This allowed them to increase their speed and performance while also reducing their energy expenditure.
The term “under-riding” was first used in the context of cycling in the late 1960s, and was popularized in the mid-1970s. Since then, the practice has become common in competitive cycling, with riders using it in order to gain an edge over their opponents. The technique is also used by recreational cyclists, who often use it to reduce their energy expenditure while enjoying a more enjoyable ride.
Under-riding has become an integral part of cycling, and has been used by cyclists all over the world for decades. It is an important skill for cyclists of all levels, and can be used to improve performance and reduce fatigue while out on the road.
