Glossary of motorcycling terms

This is a glossary of motorcycling terms.

ape hangers

Aftermarket handlebars installed on motorcycles that are taller than stock handlebars. Generally, they are shoulder-height or higher for the rider. Some U.S. states and international laws restrict the height of a motorcycles handlebars.

colors (a.k.a. cut)

Uniform of the club where club patches are proudly displayed, typically a leather or denim vest

crotch rocket (a.k.a. organ donor)

Another term for sportbike and is generally not made in the USA

hang-around

Term used by some motorcycle clubs to denote someone who has stated a clear intention of becoming a prospect with the likely follow-on intention of becoming a full patch member of the club. May be one of several stages some clubs require members to pass on their way to becoming full-patch members.

nomad

one percenter

A member of an outlaw club or gang.

prospect

Term used by some motorcycle clubs to denote someone who has stated a clear intention of becoming a full patch member of the club. Typically, the bylaws or other governing document\policy will dictate how long someone must be a prospect and what is expected of them during this period. May be one of several stages some clubs require members to pass on their way to becoming full-patch members.

Rich Urban Bikers (RUBS)

A cruiser bike buying demographic, typically middle aged male in a white-collar work with a disposable income and usually, grown-up children.

Riding pillion (a.k.a. riding bitch; riding two-up)

The act of riding as a passenger on a motorcycle sitting on the pillion (a.k.a. "bitch") seat immediately behind the driver of the motorcycle.