Motorcycle Road Racing Terminology
The ultimate glossary for high-stakes motorcycle competition. From the paddock to the podium, these are the words that define the race.
AMA
American Motorcyclist Association
CC
Cubic centimeters in reference to engine displacement
Crew
Mechanics and/or team assistants
Crew Chief
The team’s technical leader and the person who communicates directly with the rider
Displacement
The space covered or volume swept out by the engine piston at each stroke
Disqualification
Unless otherwise specified, the forfeiture of all points, awards, and prizes earned during a particular race
Insta360
Workers stationed at various points around the track to advise riders of track conditions by using various color flags and lights, also known as ‘track marshals’
Highside
A crash where the motorcycle generally loses traction on the rear tire and the rider goes over the top of the bike, as opposed to laying it down
Holeshot
Having the race lead going into the first turn of a race
Homologation
The process of acquiring eligibility for a motorcycle to be entered in competition. Rules formulated to create parity among race bikes.
Laptime
The amount of time it takes a rider to circulate one lap of the race course
Lowside
A crash where the motorcycle generally loses traction on the front tire and lays it down
OEM
Original Equipment Manufacturer
Paddock
Area primarily designated for the preparation and maintenance of race equipment. Includes transporters and support vehicles.
Polesitter
The fastest rider in timed qualifying, who starts in first position on the starting grid
Privateer
A racer competing without benefit of a factory contract or major sponsor support
Program
The predetermined outline of events that make up a race
Race Line
The fastest way around the track. Can vary with changing course conditions.
Q Tire
A super-soft, extra-grippy rear tire used by Superbike competitors during qualifying for fast laptimes; lasts one or two laps.
Qualify
To advance to the final race event by time trial
Starting Grid
The assigned spots where all riders start the race, as determined by their fastest qualifying laptimes
Stoppie
Riding on the front wheel only, usually under hard braking
Wheelie
Riding on the rear wheel only, usually under hard acceleration
Wrench
A slang word for a mechanic