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Wah-bul

Verb, Noun

Wobble: an unsteady wavering motion while cycling

Example usage: I almost fell off my bike when I hit a pothole and caused a wobble.

Most used in: Mountain biking and cycling on rough terrain.

Most used by: Experienced cyclists who ride on difficult terrain.

Popularity: 8

Comedy Value: 4

Also see: Sway, Weave, Shimmy, Waver,

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What is a Cycling Wobble?

A cycling wobble is a phenomenon that occurs when a cyclist is riding at speed and experiences a sudden and uncontrollable lateral movement of their bicycle. This phenomenon is most commonly experienced by cyclists who are riding in a straight line and is usually caused by an imbalance in the cyclist’s ability to control the bicycle. The wobble can be caused by a number of different factors, including uneven road surfaces, poor bike fit, or even the wind.

A cycling wobble can be a dangerous event, as it can make it difficult for the cyclist to maintain control of their bike and can even lead to a crash. According to a study conducted by the University of California, San Diego, wobbles are the primary cause of bicycle-related injuries in the United States, accounting for up to 35 percent of all cycling-related injuries. The same study also found that wobbling is more common among inexperienced cyclists and those who are riding on uneven surfaces.

In order to prevent wobbling, cyclists should take the time to make sure their bicycle is properly fitted to their body. They should also make sure to ride on even surfaces, and be aware of their surroundings so that they can anticipate any bumps or dips in the road. Finally, cyclists should practice good riding technique and focus on maintaining a steady, balanced posture while riding.

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The Origin of the Cycling Term 'Wobble'

The cycling term 'wobble' first appeared in the mid-1890s and was associated with the area of East London, England. It was used to refer to a cyclist who was riding in a less-than-stable manner, often due to the bike being in a state of disrepair. This instability was often caused by a loose chain, or a broken spoke.

The term was first used in print in the 1894 Cycling Magazine in an article entitled 'The Wobbler and His Ways'. The article described the 'wobbler' as a cyclist who was 'uncertain in his gait, and his machine not of the best.'

Since then, the term 'wobble' has been used to refer to any cyclist who is riding in an unstable manner. It is also used as a verb, as in 'the cyclist was wobbling down the street'.

Today, the term is still used by cyclists around the world to refer to an unstable ride, and it is also used in a more general sense to refer to any situation in which something is unstable or uncertain.

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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.

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