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Glossary of Automotive Terminology

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Glossary of automotive, recreational vehicle and motorcycle terminology.

Springs

Work in conjunction with shock absorbers or gas/oil; springs extend or compress to cushion road irregularities. Read More »

Shift on the Fly

The ability of a four-wheel-drive vehicle to be shifted between two- and four-wheel drive while the vehicle is in motion. Read More »

Twin I-Beam Suspension

Used on most Ford trucks in the last 20 years. This variation does not link the wheels, but uses two long beams, each pivoting on the opposite side of the vehicle. Results in a smoother ride, but creates tire-wear problems. Read More »

Wholesale Value

The price, based on auction results or retailer trade reports, that a retailer expects to pay for a vehicle. Read More »

Autocross

A timed competition of low-to-medium speed driving, with one driver at a time navigating a small course defined by traffic cones. Drivers compete against one another for the fastest timed lap (sometimes multiple laps) through the course. Read More »

Brake Piston

Pressure from the brake lever (when squeezed) forces the brake fluid to flow from the master cylinder down through the brake line and into the caliper. The pressure of the brake fluid causes the piston to push the brake pad to rub against the disc, thus stopping movement of the motorcycle. Read More »

Cat-Back Performance Exhaust

An exhaust system upgrade which consists of new pipes from the [catalytic converter] to the tail pipe which increases horsepower. These new pipes are larger, thus, more exhaust can exit the system. The faster the exhaust can exit, the more horsepower you gain. Read More »

Cruiser Bag

A flat rectangular-shaped bag with a long strap. They are slung over the head and one shoulder. Sometimes called a courier bag because they were originally made for motorcycle and bicycle couriers. Read More »