Glossary of Bicycling - K

K

keirin

The keirin is a 2000 metre track event where the riders start the race in a group behind a motorised derny. The derny paces the riders for 1400 metres and then pulls off the track, at which time the cyclists begin a sprint to the finish line. Keirin racing has traditionally been practised in Japan, where it has been a professional sport for over 20 years, and in which pari-mutuel betting on the riders is permitted.

kick

Accelerating quickly with a few pedalstrokes in an effort to break away from other riders (e.g. "Contador kicks again to try to rid himself of Rasmussen")

kite

Is said of a rider who climbs very well but is a poor descender.

knock

Referred to as "the knock". Short for "hunger knock". See hit the wall.