All things Motorsport in words.

The elapsed time for a drag racing vehicle to cover the first 1000 feet (used in some drag series)

The elapsed time for a drag racing vehicle to cover the first 1/4 mile

The elapsed time for a drag racing vehicle to cover the first 330 feet

The elapsed time for a drag racing vehicle to cover the first 60 feet

The elapsed time for a drag racing vehicle to cover the first 1/8 mile

Anti-lock Braking System

Grip generated by downforce

When turbulent air reduces downforce on a following car

A plate fitted to the engine intake to limit horsepower

Protective racing suit with integrated airbags

Component that directs air into the engine intake

Signal indicating a previous hazard is no longer present

Medical vehicle on standby

Suspension geometry designed to reduce front suspension compression under braking

System used on turbocharged engines to reduce turbo lag (Rally

A suspension component that reduces body roll (Sway Bar)

Suspension geometry designed to reduce rear suspension compression under acceleration

Electronic system to prevent the front wheel lifting under acceleration (MotoGP)

The optimal point in a corner to be closest to the inside

Formal request to review a steward's decision

Any small aerodynamic device attached to the bodywork

A type of steel barrier used on race tracks

A driver/rider trying to overtake

A shaft connecting two wheels

A type of off-road endurance race

Fire-resistant headwear worn under a helmet

How a vehicle handles

Regulations used in some series to equalize performance between different cars/bikes

Adjusting weight distribution or tire balance

Weight added to a vehicle to meet minimum weight requirements or adjust weight distribution

The angle of a corner on an oval track

Aerodynamic devices on the side of a race car to manage airflow (F1)

A structure designed to absorb impact and prevent vehicles from leaving the track

Electrical power source for the vehicle

A banked corner built up from dirt or soil (Motocross

The point in clutch travel where the clutch starts to engage

A temporary camp for competitors and teams during a rally raid (Dakar)

Instructs a driver/rider to return to the pits immediately

Overheating of a tire causing chunks of rubber to detach

A valve on turbocharged engines to release excess pressure when the throttle is closed

Informs a driver/rider that a faster vehicle is approaching and they must allow it to pass

The tilting of a vehicle's body during cornering

The outer shell or panels of a race vehicle

Protective footwear worn by drivers/riders

When the suspension compresses fully and hits its limit

Radio call instructing the driver/rider to come into the pit lane

A drag racing format where competitors predict their elapsed time (dial-in)

The distribution of braking force between the front and rear wheels

An opening designed to channel air to cool the brakes

Loss of braking power due to overheating

A visual reference point on the track indicating where to begin braking

Electronic braking system (F1)

When a vehicle loses traction and begins to slide

In bracket drag racing

A section of the track that goes over another part

Pushing the car in front to gain speed on an oval track (NASCAR)

Protective structure at the front or rear of a vehicle (Karting

Spinning the tires while stationary to heat them up for better grip (Drag Racing

In drag racing

Part of the brake system that squeezes the pads onto the rotor

The angle of a wheel relative to the vertical axis

Rotating shaft in an engine that controls valve timing

Small winglet on the front of a race car for aerodynamic effect

A sharp stud inserted into tires for ice racing

Device that mixes air and fuel for combustion (older engines)

Landing short on the face of a jump (Motocross

The angle of the steering axis relative to the vertical axis

Device in the exhaust system to reduce emissions (less common in pure race cars)

A fence designed to stop vehicles that have left the track

A yellow flag period in oval racing where the field is neutralized behind the pace car (NASCAR)

In drag racing

Component used to transmit power

The overall competition title awarded at the end of a season

Points awarded to drivers/riders based on their finishing position

The main structural frame of a vehicle

Signals the end of a race or session

A sequence of tight turns in alternating directions

A closed course used for racing

In Trials

Undisturbed airflow over a vehicle

Official responsible for the overall running of the event

Hitting the apex of a corner precisely

Moving to block a competitor attempting to overtake

Mechanism that connects and disconnects the engine from the transmission

The navigator in a rally car

The driver's compartment in a race car

Tires that have not reached their optimal operating temperature and have reduced grip

Making adjustments to the setup that benefit one area of performance at the expense of another

Maintaining similar lap times throughout a race

The team or manufacturer that builds the chassis of a race car (F1)

The championship title awarded to the most successful constructor

When two or more vehicles touch during a race

The area of a tire that is in contact with the track surface

A single tire supplier for all competitors in a series

Building where race control is located

When a tire is worn down to the internal cords

Any turn or bend in the track (various types: square

The act of navigating a turn

An accident involving one or more vehicles

The top of a hill or rise in the road (Rally)

The head strategist and manager for a race car team (NASCAR)

Long-distance off-road rally events (e.g.

The raised edge along the side of the track

Driving or riding over the trackside curbs

The banked dirt on the outside of an oval track (Flat Track

Intentionally driving over the inside of a corner

A chamber in the engine where combustion occurs

In Trials

A famous cross-country rally raid event

Component that controls suspension movement (Shock absorber)

A short sprint race for a monetary prize (Flat Track)

Recording vehicle performance data during a session

A sticker or transfer applied to the vehicle bodywork

A driver/rider trying to prevent an overtake

The plan for preventing competitors from overtaking

The difference in time between two laps or sectors

The predicted elapsed time in bracket drag racing

Component that allows wheels on the same axle to rotate at different speeds

An oval race track with a dirt surface (Flat Track

A brake system using a disc (rotor) and caliper

Exclusion from a race or event due to rule infringement

The act of braking and turning into a corner

Did Not Finish (retired from the race)

Did Not Start (did not take the start of the race)

A jump consisting of two mounds with a gap in between (Motocross

Disqualified

Following closely behind another vehicle to benefit from reduced air resistance (Slipstream)

Aerodynamic resistance

A system allowing the driver to adjust a wing element to reduce drag on straights (F1)

A controlled slide

Component that transmits power from the gearbox to the wheels

A penalty requiring a driver/rider to enter the pit lane and drive through without stopping

The championship title awarded to the most successful driver/rider

An older type of brake system using shoes that press against a drum

A race held in dry conditions

The ability of a vehicle or component to withstand the demands of racing

Fine particles on the track surface (Rally

Touching the elbow on the ground during cornering (MotoGP)

A problem with the vehicle's electrical system

Stopping with the rear wheel in the air (Stoppie - Motorcycle)

The vertical section at the end of a wing

A race held over a long distance or duration

A type of off-road motorcycle race held over long distances or durations

An indoor Enduro race with extreme obstacles

The power unit of the vehicle

Using the engine's resistance to slow the vehicle

A mechanical problem with the engine

Adjusting the electronic control unit to optimize engine performance

Energy Recovery System (F1)

A series of alternating left and right turns

Being removed from a competition

System that channels waste gases from the engine

A race team directly run and funded by a manufacturer

Plastic or fiberglass bodywork for wind protection (Motorcycle)

A bracket that supports the motorcycle fairing

Starting before the official signal

The quickest single lap time recorded during a session or race

The main race event at a meeting (various series)

Component that removes contaminants from air or fuel

Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (International Motorcycling Federation)

The main race of an event after heats or qualifiers

The final gear ratio in the drivetrain

A fire involving a vehicle

Safety equipment carried in or near the vehicle

Protective clothing worn by drivers/riders

Platform where marshals display flags

Driving or riding at maximum speed

A worn patch on a tire caused by locking the brakes

A quick steering input to initiate a slide (Scandinavian Flick - Rally)

The timing point at the end of a rally stage where the clock stops

Reduced visibility due to atmospheric conditions

Where the rider places their feet on a motorcycle

Using a turbocharger or supercharger to increase engine power

A shallow water crossing (Rally

The front suspension components of a motorcycle

A lap before the start of the race where cars/bikes follow the safety car

An infringement of the rules

A spark plug that is no longer firing correctly

A controlled slide where all four wheels are sliding

A vehicle where all four wheels are driven

The main structural component of a motorcycle (Chassis)

A car one or more laps down that gets a lap back under caution (NASCAR)

Practice sessions that do not count towards qualifying

Aerodynamic device at the front of a race car

A safety fuel tank designed to prevent leaks in a crash

Component that removes contaminants from the fuel

System that delivers fuel to the engine cylinders

A problem related to the fuel system

Component that delivers fuel from the tank to the engine

The plan for refueling during a race

Container for the vehicle's fuel

A class in motorcycle drag racing

A class in motorcycle drag racing

A type of drag racing car with a one-piece body that lifts up

The force of acceleration

The area in the paddock where teams work on the vehicles

Credential allowing access to the team garages

The start of a Motocross or Supercross race

The combination of gear ratios used in the transmission

Protective handwear

Grand National Cross Country (Off-road racing series)

Protective eyewear worn with a helmet (Off-road)

Uneven wear on a tire surface

Seating area for spectators

Loose stones or pebbles on the track surface (Rally

An area filled with gravel designed to slow down vehicles that have left the track

A track surface with poor grip

Signals the start or restart of a race or session

The time during a race when the green flag is displayed and racing is permitted

A pit stop taken while the race is under green flag conditions (NASCAR)

The starting positions on the track

A penalty that results in a driver starting lower on the grid

Opportunity for spectators or media to walk on the grid before the race

The optimal racing line on a track

A very tight

A drive shaft connecting the differential to a wheel (Cars)

A protective cockpit safety structure (F1)

Using the handbrake to initiate a slide for a tight corner (Rally)

The steering control on a motorcycle

How a vehicle responds to driver inputs

Head and Neck Support device

A tire with a harder rubber mixture

A type of off-road race held over a marked course through varied terrain

Safety belts used to secure a driver in a car

The truck used to transport race cars and equipment

Part of the exhaust system connected directly to the engine

The part of a motorcycle frame where the forks are attached

The process of heating and cooling a tire

A short qualifying race used in some series (e.g.

Aircraft used for medical transport or broadcasting

A race up a steep incline

A section of a course going down a steep incline (Enduro

The center part of a wheel

The amount of moisture in the air

A backpack containing water for the rider (Off-road)

Frozen water on the track surface (Ice Racing

Racing on ice or frozen surfaces

Spikes inserted into tires for ice racing

The system that ignites the fuel-air mixture in the engine

A suspension system where each wheel can move vertically independently

A drag racing format where competitors try to run as close as possible to a predetermined time

Component used to cool the air before it enters a turbocharged or supercharged engine

International Six Days Enduro (Off-road event)

A lightweight shirt worn by off-road riders

Taking off over a rise in the road (Rally

Starting before the green light or flag

A small

The raised edge along the side of the track (Curb)

A lever used to start a motorcycle engine manually

A safety switch to quickly shut off the engine

The angle of the steering axis relative to the vertical axis when viewed from the front

Protective support worn on the knee

Off-road tires with large tread blocks

A qualifying format where the slowest cars/riders are eliminated in stages

One full circuit of the track

The fastest lap time ever recorded at a specific track

The time taken to complete one lap

Slower vehicles that are being lapped by the leaders

When a leading vehicle overtakes a vehicle that is a lap or more behind

The start of a drag race

Electronic system to optimize the start (MotoGP

A type of race start where drivers run to their cars

The degree to which a motorcycle is tilted in a corner (MotoGP)

Protective leather clothing (Motorcycle)

A non-competitive section of a rally between special stages

A non-competitive section of a rally between special stages

A fuel-saving technique where the driver lifts off the throttle before braking

The signal for the start of a race (often refers to the starting lights going out)

A differential that allows some difference in wheel speed but limits excessive slip

The paint scheme and sponsor decals on a race vehicle

When a wheel stops rotating under braking

A practice run simulating race conditions over multiple laps

A car that tends to oversteer (rear end slides out) (NASCAR)

Being defeated in a race or heat (Drag Racing)

A crash where the bike slides out from under the rider (MotoGP)

The first car one lap down that gets a lap back under caution (NASCAR)

The primary race event at a meeting

A stage in a rally raid where no outside mechanical assistance is allowed

Small pieces of tire rubber and debris off the racing line

An official who manages trackside safety and signals

A designated location for track marshals

Team member responsible for maintaining and repairing the vehicle

A breakdown of a vehicle component

Grip generated by the tires and suspension

Award given to top finishers

Area for journalists and photographers

On-site facility for medical treatment

When the track surface has both wet and dry areas

The speed measurement used in drag racing and some other series

Wet soil on the track surface (Rally

Component in the exhaust system to reduce noise (Silencer)

FIM Motocross World Championship

Played before the start of a race

The process of finding the correct route

Protective support worn around the neck

Nitrous oxide injection used to increase engine power (Drag Racing)

A feature on a Trials or Endurocross course that must be overcome

Racing on unpaved surfaces

When a vehicle leaves the designated racing surface

Component used to cool the engine oil

Opposite lock (countersteering during a slide)

Over The Bars (a type of crash where the rider goes over the handlebars)

A race track with two straights and two turns

To pass another vehicle during a race

The plan for passing competitors

The person or entity that owns the race team or vehicle

The championship title awarded to the most successful team owner (NASCAR)

The speed at which a driver/rider is completing laps

A vehicle that leads the field at a reduced speed during caution periods (same as Safety Car)

Detailed description of a rally stage read by the co-driver

Part of the brake system that presses against the rotor or drum

The area behind the pits where teams and transporters are located

Credential allowing access to the paddock area

The finish applied to the vehicle bodywork

Protective legwear worn by off-road riders

A device used to slow down drag racing cars after the finish line

Controls for throttle

A punishment imposed for breaking the rules

An area where a driver serves a penalty

The overall capability and speed of a vehicle

A driver's/rider's fastest lap time at a specific track

A race finish so close that a photograph is needed to determine the winner

Component that moves up and down inside the engine cylinder

A small motorcycle used in the pit area

Credential allowing access to the pit lane

Stopping in the pit lane for tires

Rehearsing pit stop procedures

A vehicle that feels stable and has good grip

The top three finishing positions in a race

The presentation of trophies to the top finishers

The ranking of drivers/riders based on accumulated points

Units awarded for finishing positions in a race or stage

Sessions before qualifying and the race to allow teams to set up the car/bike

Rehearsing the race start procedure

The first beam a drag racing car breaks at the starting line

Meeting where drivers/riders and team personnel answer questions from the media

A class in drag racing featuring highly modified cars with various engine types

A class in drag racing featuring highly modified production-based cars

A class in motorcycle drag racing

A type of starting light sequence in drag racing where all amber lights flash simultaneously

A formal complaint filed against a competitor or official decision

Achieving the fastest time early in qualifying

A type of suspension linkage (F1)

Driving aggressively or at the limit

A lap completed during qualifying to set a time

A practice run simulating qualifying conditions

A system that allows clutchless upshifts on a motorcycle

The officials who manage the race

The official in charge of running the race

The engineer responsible for the setup and performance of a specific car/rider

A lap completed during the race

A practice run simulating race conditions over multiple laps

Protective clothing worn by drivers/riders

The total time taken to complete the race

Component used to cool the engine coolant

Communication between the driver/rider and the team

Water falling from the sky

A type of long-distance off-road rally (Cross-country rally)

The time between the green light and a drag racing car leaving the starting line

Signals that a session or race is stopped immediately

The time during which the red flag is displayed and the race is stopped

Leaving the starting line before the green light in drag racing

In drag racing

The maximum safe engine speed

The rules governing a motorsport series

The likelihood of a vehicle completing a race without mechanical issues

A formal warning from the stewards

Actions taken to extract a driver/rider from a crashed vehicle

How quickly a vehicle reacts to driver inputs

A non-competitive day during a multi-day event (Rally Raid)

The resumption of a race after a caution or red flag period

A series of jumps and obstacles in quick succession (Supercross)

The outer edge of a wheel that holds the tire

A race track with both left and right turns (not an oval)

A roll of paper or digital display containing navigation instructions for a rally

Large stones on the track surface (Enduro

A safety structure built into the vehicle to protect the occupants in a crash

A safety structure above the driver's head (Single Seaters)

A race start where the vehicles are already moving

A driver/rider in their first season in a particular series

The disc in a disc brake system that the pads press against

A single event in a championship season

The official document containing the regulations

A groove or channel formed in the track surface by repeated use (Motocross

A vehicle that leads the field at a reduced speed during caution periods

A part of the track covered in deep sand (Motocross

An area filled with sand designed to slow down vehicles that have left the track

Intentionally performing below potential to hide true speed

A technique used in rallying to initiate a slide for a corner

A type of off-road motorcycle race

A technique used in Motocross to stay low over jumps and carry more speed

Wearing the surface off new tires to improve grip or cleaning the tires after leaving the track

The driver/rider's seat

A section of the track used for timing purposes

The time taken to complete a specific sector of the track

A race held before the final in some formats (e.g.

To attempt a risky or challenging maneuver

Devices that measure various parameters on the vehicle

A designated zone in a rally where teams can work on the cars

Team members responsible for maintaining and repairing the vehicle during a rally

The main hub in a rally where teams perform maintenance and repairs

The adjustments made to a vehicle's suspension

Adjustments made to the vehicle's configuration

A short test run to check a new or repaired vehicle or a final test before a rally

In drag racing

Component that controls suspension movement (Damper)

A practice run over a few laps to check setup changes

Shifting to a higher gear before reaching the engine's redline

A motorcycle with a sidecar attached

Aerodynamic structures on the sides of a race car

Visual or auditory communication from officials

Component in the exhaust system to reduce noise (Muffler)

The period when drivers/riders and teams negotiate contracts for the following season

Using computer models to predict vehicle performance or strategy

Race cars with an open cockpit and one seat (e.g.

A narrow trail that can only be ridden in single file (Enduro

meaning

A clutch designed to reduce engine braking and rear wheel hop during downshifts (Motorcycle)

Frozen precipitation on the track surface (Ice Racing

A suspension system where the wheels on an axle are rigidly connected

A competitive section of a rally against the clock

Designated zones for the public to watch the race

A specific location for spectators on a rally stage

The rate at which a vehicle is traveling

Sharp studs inserted into tires for ice racing

When a vehicle rotates uncontrollably

An aerodynamic device

The rods connecting the hub to the rim of a spoked wheel

A company or individual providing financial support to a team or driver/rider

A type of starting light sequence in drag racing with staggered amber lights

A toothed wheel that engages with a chain (Motorcycle

A component in the suspension that limits travel

A competitive section of a rally

Dividing a race into segments with points awarded at the end of each stage (NASCAR)

In drag racing

Setting the circumference of tires on one side of the car slightly larger than the other to help turn on oval tracks (NASCAR)

Positioning a drag racing car at the starting line

A race start where the vehicles are stationary on the grid

The timing point at the beginning of a rally stage where the clock starts

The line on the track where races begin and end and laps are counted

Component that cranks the engine to start it

A steel plate worn on the left boot by flat track riders to slide on the dirt

The system used to control the direction of the vehicle

A component that reduces unwanted handlebar movement on a motorcycle

The maximum angle the wheels can turn

The control used by the driver to steer (Cars)

A jump where the landing is lower than the take-off (Motocross

A jump where the landing is higher than the take-off (Motocross

An official responsible for enforcing the rules and imposing penalties

The timing point at the end of a rally stage before the flying finish

The plan for pit stops

A mistake in the race strategy

A race track made up of temporary roads in a city

Tires with metal studs for grip on ice or snow

The rear section of a motorcycle frame

A short

A class of road racing motorcycles based on production models

An indoor off-road motorcycle racing discipline with man-made obstacles

A class of road racing motorcycles based on production models

A vehicle used to carry spare parts and personnel during a rally

A mechanical problem with the suspension system

A rider who follows the course to assist competitors who have broken down (Enduro

A vehicle that follows the course to assist competitors who have broken down (Rally Raid)

The component that connects the rear wheel to the frame of a motorcycle

A jump with a flat top surface (Motocross

Violent oscillation of the handlebars (motorcycle racing)

Paved road surface (Rally)

A mistake made by the race team

Instructions given by the team to a driver/rider

Official responsible for enforcing technical regulations

Data transmitted from the vehicle to the pit garage

The heat of the air

A non-competitive session for teams to test vehicles and setups

The control that regulates engine power

Electronic throttle system (F1)

A car that tends to understeer (front end pushes wide) (NASCAR)

A point in a rally where competitors must report their arrival time

A point in a rally where competitors must check in at a specific time

A penalty that adds time to a driver's/rider's race time

A safety barrier made of stacked tires

Replacing tires during a pit stop

The specific rubber mixture used for a tire

The rate at which tires lose performance due to wear and heat

A problem with a tire (e.g.

The air pressure inside the tires

Violent vibration caused by the tires losing and regaining traction (Drag Racing)

The angle of the wheels relative to the vehicle's longitudinal axis

The premier class in motorcycle drag racing

The maximum speed a vehicle can achieve

A rotational force produced by the engine

Production-based cars modified for racing

An adjustable suspension link used to control lateral movement of the rear axle (NASCAR)

Signal indicating the track is safe after an incident

The boundaries of the racing surface

The temperature of the track surface

An electronic system that prevents wheelspin

A compromise in setup where improving one area negatively impacts another

The distance between the steering axis and the contact patch of the front tire

Continuing to brake while turning into a corner

The system of gears that transmits power from the engine to the wheels

The speed of a drag racing car as it crosses the finish line

A device used by the co-driver to measure distances (Rally)

A jump consisting of three mounds with gaps in between (Motocross

The component that holds the forks to the headstock on a motorcycle (Yoke)

An award given to top finishers

A short sprint race for a trophy (Flat Track)

A chassis constructed from welded tubes (Drag Racing

A section of the track that goes under another part

Turbocharger

The delay between pressing the throttle and the turbocharger providing boost

A forced induction device powered by exhaust gases

An engine that completes a power cycle in two piston strokes

A vehicle where only two wheels are driven

Electric blanket used to heat tires before a session or race (Tire warmer)

A pit stop strategy where a driver pits early to gain an advantage on fresh tires (F1)

When the front tires lose traction before the front tires

The aerodynamic surface on the underside of a race car

Fire-resistant clothing worn under the race suit

When a lapped car/rider regains a lap on the leader

Changing to a higher gear

Component in the engine that controls the flow of air and fuel into and out of the cylinders

An experienced driver/rider

A sticky resin applied to the track surface to improve traction (Drag Racing)

A system where drivers must maintain a set delta time under caution (F1)

The transparent shield on a helmet

A solid barrier on the side of the track

A driver who drives very close to the wall (primarily in oval racing)

A section of track with a series of small bumps close together (Off-road)

An area before the starting line in drag racing where cars perform burnouts

A section of a course that goes through water (Enduro

A section of a rally stage with standing water

A car one or more laps down that is allowed to pass the pace car under caution to get a lap back (NASCAR)

A geographical coordinate that must be reached during a rally raid

Prediction of weather conditions

An adjustment to the weight distribution of a car (NASCAR)

The shifting of weight within a vehicle under acceleration

A race held in wet conditions

Tires with a deep tread pattern for heavy rain

The circular component that rotates and has a tire fitted

The distance between the front and rear axles

Lifting the front wheel off the ground under acceleration (primarily in motorcycle racing

Bars extending from the rear of a drag racing car to prevent excessive wheelies

Throwing the vehicle sideways in the air over a jump (Motocross

Signals the start of the final lap

The line marking the edge of the track

Driving or riding with extreme tension due to difficult conditions

A series of closely spaced bumps (Motocross

A vehicle with a difficult or unpredictable handling characteristic

A competitor who enters a race but is not a full-time participant in the series

Finishing first in a race or heat

In drag racing

Air movement

An aerodynamic device used to generate downforce

The system of electrical wires in the vehicle

A type of suspension link

Instability in the front end of a motorcycle (Tank Slapper)

A drag racing car that stays low to the ground during the launch

World Rally Championship

A crash where parts of the vehicle are scattered widely

Signals a hazard on or near the track

The component that holds the forks to the headstock on a motorcycle (Triple clamp)

A suspension setup