Speed - Made in America

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

Cornerworkers/Corner Marshals

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, or a “lowside”

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. Homologation rules are formulated to create parity among race bikes, and to maintain a level playing field for all competitors

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. May also include parking for transporters and other 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, or through a particular part of the track. Can vary with changing course conditions

Q Tire

A super-soft, extra-grippy rear tire used by Superbike competitors during qualifying. A Q tire generally yields the fast laptimes, but it only lasts one or two laps before wearing out

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