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HARLEY-DAVIDSON SLANG TERM DICTIONARY

Our favorite motorcycle lingo ranges from motorcycle synonyms to motorcycle part jargon and everything in between. Define your favorite motorcycle jargon below:

• Ape-Hangers: Tall handlebars that rise high above the rider's head, often seen on chopper motorcycles and immortalized in Easy Rider; these get their name from the look of the “hanging” arm position.
  
  

• ATGATT: Stands for “all the gear, all the time.” A mantra emphasizing the importance of wearing full protective gear while riding, even on short trips. Safety first, friends!
  
  

• Back Box: Your trusty traveling companion, a back box—also known as a top case—is a type of motorcycle luggage that securely straps onto your tail, offering crucial storage for essentials and souvenirs. Pack smart, riders – every mile counts.
  
  

• Bagger: Think of a touring-focused Harley-Davidson® motorcycle decked out like a chrome palace on wheels. Luggage, windshields, and all the creature comforts you could desire come together in a high-performance bagger, transforming every journey into a luxurious escape.
  
  

• Barn Find: A classic motorcycle discovered in pristine condition, usually tucked away in a shed or garage. Think dusty diamonds and forgotten treasures.
  
  

• Bobber: Minimalism meets muscle in the world of bobbers. Stripped down to their bare essentials, these lean machines focus on pure riding pleasure. Bobbers shed unnecessary weight and chrome, emphasizing the raw beauty of the engine and chassis.
  
  

• Café Racer: Inspired by the glamorous days of 1950s racing culture, café racers are sleek, stripped-down machines built for speed and style. Think leather jackets, tucked-in handlebars, and a roaring engine that begs to be pushed to its limits.
  
  

• Cage: Be it a sedan or an SUV, a "cage" refers to our four-wheeled counterparts.
  
  

• Chopper: Imagine a long, low, and loud machine; that's a chopper. Referring to extensively customized motorcycles, especially Harley-Davidson® motorcycles, choppers stretch out the frame and handlebars, creating an imposing presence and laid-back riding style. Their unique aesthetic is a testament to the creativity and passion of the Harley-Davidson community.
  
  

• Cruiser: The quintessential Harley-Davidson experience. Big motorcycles, relaxed riding positions, and an emphasis on comfort make cruiser motorcycles the perfect companions for long-distance adventures. Lean back, crank up the tunes, and let the miles melt away beneath your tires.
  
  

• Dresser: The ultimate in touring motorcycle opulence, dressers take comfort and convenience to the next level. Plush seats, high-fidelity sound systems, and enough storage for a week's worth of gear make these machines veritable rolling mansions.
  
  

• EV: Embracing the future, Harley-Davidson isn't just roaring down the highway, it's silently gliding there too. Our expanding lineup of electric motorcycles offers the thrilling power and freedom of a hog with a whisper-quiet, environmentally conscious twist.
  
  

• Hack: Short for “sidehack,” this is a nickname for motorcycles with a sidecar attached.
  
  

• Jiffy Stand: This is another name for a motorcycle side stand and is used by a rider to park a motorcycle upright on a solid surface. These are on the left-hand side of a motorcycle.
  
  

• Kit: From helmet and jacket to gloves and boots, your kit is your second skin on the road. Invest in quality gear that prioritizes both safety and comfort.
  
  

• MC: A motorcycle club. More than just a group of riders, MCs represent a deep-rooted sense of community and shared passion. Bound by brotherhood (or sisterhood) and countless miles traveled together, MCs carry a rich history and tradition. Respect the patch, riders, and the values it represents.
  
  

• Naked Bike: No fairing, no fuss, just pure riding. Naked bikes expose the raw beauty of the motorcycle's mechanics, offering a visceral and unfiltered experience for the purist. These unadorned machines celebrate the essence of motorcycling in its most basic form.
  
  

• Pillion: This fancy term refers to a particular kind of motorcycle seat, however, it is also sometimes used to refer to the passenger seating in it.
  
  

• Rally: An event where motorcycle enthusiasts gather, typically with music, food, vendors, and rides, to celebrate their shared affinity for the life of the open road and the beloved motorcycles that make it all possible.
  
  

• Road rash: Abrasion caused by falling to the pavement. This term serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safe riding practices and proper motorcycle gear. While the adrenaline rush of the open road is exhilarating, always prioritize caution and protect yourself.
  
  

• Sissy Bar: A vertical bar mounted behind the motorcycle seat, a sissy bar can offer an additional luggage mounting point or serve as a backrest for a passenger.
  
  

• Trike: While the classic two-wheeled experience reigns supreme, trikes offer a unique alternative. These three-wheeled machines bring an unparalleled sense of comfort and confidence to the road, appealing to veteran riders seeking a relaxed experience or those new to the world of motorcycles.
  
  

• Weekend Warrior: A rider who only rides on weekends or during vacations.
  
  

Want to learn even more of the basic terminology and must-know slang of the motorcycling world? Sign up for one of the courses on offer at the Harley-Davidson® Riding Academy. Explore classes and training for riders of all skill levels and join us today.