You're Not a Rider Until You Speak the Language: The Unwritten Glossary of Biker Slang — and the Stories Behind the Words

 

Driving off the lot with a new motorcycle can be thrilling, but it’s not what makes you a rider. Beyond learning how to ride, it’s important to learn the lingo, the unique language spoken by motorcyclists. Otherwise, talking to other bikers might feel like talking to someone in another language.

Fortunately, it’s not hard to pick up on the lingo, and many riders are happy to explain terms to those who are new to riding. Some of the most common ones you might come across, though, include the following.

Brain Bucket/Lid

 When riding, the helmet is arguably the most important part of riding gear, as it helps to protect the head in an accident. Many older helmets looked more like buckets than helmets, so riders started calling them brain buckets. They can also be called lids, as they sit on top of the head and help to provide protection when riding.

Pillion

Hundreds of years ago, the term pillion was coined to mean the saddle or rug behind the rider of a horse, intended for a secondary rider to use. Motorcyclists have borrowed this term and use it to refer to the second seat behind the main rider or the person riding in back. It can also be used to refer to the act of riding in the back on a motorcycle.

Cager

Driving down the road on a motorcycle is often a symbol of freedom. Not much separates the motorcyclist from their surroundings, and they can feel the breeze as they ride down the road. Cars are very different, though. Drivers sit inside the vehicle and are surrounded by metal and plastic, almost like they’re in a cage. This has led to the term “cager,” which simply means a car or someone driving in a car.

Power Ranger

Back in 1993, the TV show “Power Rangers” was first released. It featured a group of teenagers, all dressed in matching suits in different colors, who fought off evil. The slang term “power ranger” used by motorcyclists describes riders who are matching, head to toe, typically in expensive gear. This is a nod to the TV show and the matching outfits the teenagers wore.

Throttle Jockey

A throttle jockey is someone who likes riding at a high rate of speed. This term is now common amongst riders, but it isn’t exclusive to motorcycles. It can be used to describe anyone who’s riding at a high rate of speed, from car drivers to aircraft pilots. Motocyclists typically use it as a derogatory term to describe someone who constantly accelerates and decelerates.

Crotch Rocket

Those new to riding may hear the term “crotch rocket” used to describe certain bikes when they’re shopping for motorcycles for sale or learning to ride. A crotch rocket is a sports bike where the rider leans forward against the bike while riding instead of sitting upright. The term describes how the rider sits on the bike while riding, as it is different from other types of motorcycles.

Farkles

Add-ons and accessories are available for almost every type of bike. They can be used to change the look of the bike, add more storage, or for other benefits. Motorcyclists often refer to these as “farkles,” which is a combination of the words “functional” and “sparkle.” Often, the term is used when talking about a rider who has a lot of extras on their bike.

Twisties

There’s nothing like a ride down a long and winding road, especially a road with an amazing view. Motorcyclists refer to these roads as “twisties” because of the twisting motion made while handling the throttle to go around the corners of the road. Oftentimes, twisties are roads that require a lot of skill to ride, so those who are new to riding may want to get a little more experience before giving them a try.

Lane Splitting

In the 1970s, in California, the term was first used to describe riding between two lanes of traffic to bypass congestion. Since then, the use of the term has spread throughout the United States and to other countries, though it can also be called lane filtering. Lane splitting is done to prevent being stuck in congestion, but it is not legal to do so everywhere. Riders will want to understand local laws before giving this a try.

Two Fingers Down

When riders are going down the road, they may see another person on a motorcycle hold out their hand with two fingers, somewhat like a peace sign. What does 2 fingers down mean for bikers? This is used to point two fingers at the road, like saying to keep both wheels on the ground. It’s a symbol of camaraderie and a way to wish other riders a safe ride.

Tap on Helmet

Another sign that riders may notice is a motorcyclist going the other direction or the same direction in front of them, tapping their helmet. This is a sign that there’s something to watch out for ahead. It could be something dangerous on the road, a police officer doing radar, or any other hazard. It’s always a good idea to pay a little more attention after seeing another biker tap on their helmet.

Slang Across Subcultures

This list is intended to be an introduction to the language of motorcycle enthusiasts. However, it is important to note that different slang terms may be used by different subcultures or may have different meanings. Lane splitting in the US is often called lane filtering in the UK, for example. Pay attention when talking with local riders to learn the local lingo and get a better idea of what different slang terms mean.

Once you have the basics down, you’ll sound like a pro when you talk to other riders. Even if you’re new to owning motorcycles, understanding the lingo and slang can help keep you safe, make sure you can understand the conversation, and help you learn more about motorcycles and riding. Use the list here to get you started.