Learn Motocross Racing Terminology

AMA: American Motorcyclist Association
CC: Cubic centimeters in reference to engine displacement.
Claiming: Procedures for competitors to purchase motorcycles or parts that another competitor has used in final event competition.
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.
Flaggers: Workers stationed at various points around the track to advise riders of track conditions by using different color flags. Also known as "corner workers."
Get Off: A crash
Heat Race: A qualifying race determining which riders advance to the main event.
High-Side: A crash where the rider goes over the top of the bike, as opposed to laying it down, or a "low-side."
Hole Shot: Taking the lead 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 competitors.
LCQ: Last Chance Qualifying race: where a limited number of top finishers advance to the main event.
Line: The fastest way around the track, or through a particular part of the track. Can vary with changing course conditions.
Lites: A class for 125cc two-stroke and 250cc four-stroke equipment in AMA Supercross and AMA Motocross Championships.
OEM: Original Equipment Manufacturer.
Pit/Paddock: Area primarily designated for the preparation and maintenance of race equipment. May also include parking for transporters and other support vehicles.
Pit Crew: Mechanics and/or team assistants.
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.
Qualify: To advance to the final race event by time trial or finish position in a heat race.
Seize: When an engine fails due to excessive heat buildup.
Stoppie: Riding on the front wheel only, usually under hard braking.
Thumper: Descriptive term for a four-stroke motorcycle engine in regard to the deep sound of the exhaust.
Wheelie: Riding on the rear wheel only, usually under hard acceleration.
Wrench: Slang for mechanic.
Works: Refers to parts being tested in competition by a manufacturer.

Provided by the American Motorcycle Association.

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