Dictionary

paceline: A line of cyclists moving at speed, with each cyclist taking a turn at the head of the line.

palmares: A list of a cyclist's career awards, wins and trophies.

Parcours: A bicycle race course.

peloton: The main body of cyclists in a race.

poursuivant: A rider trying to catch up to a breakaway.

pull: A rider who rides in front while his teammates draft in his wake (the leader takes the brunt of the wind resistance, making cycling easier for those in the rear. Team members take turns "pulling" and the rider at the front is "taking a pull."

PSI: Pounds per square inch; used as a measurement of tire pressure.

Pyrenees: A mountain range separating France and Spain, and part of the Tour de France.

quadriceps: Large muscle at the front of the thigh. Quadriceps provide the power needed to pedal.

queen stage: The hardest stage of a race, often including the highest peak.

rainbow jersey: A jersey awarded to the UCI world champion, colored in blue, black, yellow, green and red bands.
 
repechage: "Second chance;" a race in a track racing series that allows the losers of qualifying heats to reenter the contest.


rest day: A day without racing during a long stage race.


roof of the door: The highest elevation in a race.


road rash:Scraps and bruises due to a fall.


rouleur: See baroudeur.


Schrader valve: A standard tire air valve.


slipstream: The area of low wind resistance directly behind a cyclist.


sprocket: Toothed gear used to move the chain drive, transferring power from the pedals to the back wheel.


stage race: A point to point race encompassing days, which may include road races and time trials.


switchback: A sharp turn on a mountain road.