Bike riding language has a few of it’s own words to use and remember. Below is a definition of bike riding terms:
Slowing – When someone yells “Slowing”, this means that there is something that is causing the pack to slow down. This can be anything from a traffic signal, riders moving at a slower pace or a car up ahead. In any event, prepare to slow down. Tap your brakes and repeat the yell “Slowing”. This is to indicate to others that you have heard them and you are slowing down. This will also alert those behind you that you are slowing down.
Stopping – When someone yells “Stopping”, this means that there is something that is causing the pack to stop. This can be anything from a traffic signal, a slower group of riders, something in the road or a car up ahead. In any event, prepare to stop. Tap your brakes and repeat the yell “Stopping”. It’s VERY important not to slam on your brakes especially if there are others behind you.
Hold your line – When someone yells, “Hold your line”, this means that you need to stay in a straight line as best you can. In most cases, the person yelling this out to you is attempting to pass. If you swing out or if you don’t keep your bike steady, you could cause the other cyclist trouble.
On your left – When someone yells, “on your left”, this means that they are passing you on your left. No need to take this personally. Let them pass as they have the right of way. You should never hear “on your right” because a cyclist should never pass on the right. Be on the lookout, however, because there are many bicyclers with varying experience that may try to pass on the wrong side. If someone does this, kindly remind him or her that they should pass on the left. Also, it is common courtesy to say “Thank you” to the person yelling “on your left”. This indicates to them that you’ve heard them.
Car up – When someone yells, “car up”, this means that there is a car up front. It is intended to be a verbal caution indicating that a stop may be necessary. If you hear this, repeat the call so that others know that you are aware of the vehicle up front and to alert those riding behind you of the situation.
Car back – When someone yells, “car back”, this means that there is a car behind you. It is intended to be a verbal caution indicating that a stop may be necessary. If you hear this, repeat the call so that others know that you are aware of the vehicle behind you and to alert riders in front of you of the vehicle.
When traveling in heavy traffic areas (metropolitan), stating it repeatedly is not necessary.