Motorcycle Glossary of Terms
A|B|C|D|E|F|G|H|I|J|K|L|M|N|O|P|Q|R|S|T|U|V|W|X|Y|Z
Please e-mail us if you have
a glossary term suggestion to add to our motorcycle
glossary: webmaster@motorbike-search-engine.co.uk
SACU - Scottish Auto Cycle
Union, which controls motorcycle sport in
Scotland.
SAE - Society of Automotive
Engineers. Used in a system of classifying
engine oils such as SAE30, IOW/50etc.
Scotoiler - An automatic
chain lubrication system.
Sealant - A liquid or paste
used to prevent leakage at a joint. Sometimes
used in conjunction with a gasket.
Shaft drive - A method of
transmitting drive from the transmission to
the rear wheel.
Shim - Thin spacer,commonly
used to adjust the clearance or relative positions
between two parts. For example, shims inserted
into or under tappets or followers to control
valve clearances. Clearance is adjusted by
changing the thickness of the shim.
Shock adsorber - A damper,
used to control up-and-down movement of suspension
or to cushion a drive train. Commonly refered
to as Shocks.
Short circuit - An electrical
condition where current shorts to earth (ground)
bypassing the circuit components.
Silencer - Device fitted
to the exhaust system or an engine whereby
the pressure of the exhaust gases is considerably
reduced before reaching the outer air.
Skimming - Process to correct
warpage or repair a damaged surface, eg on
brake discs or drum.
Slimline - Ccommon term
for a latter developed MacCandless Norton
Frame
Slipper clutch - desighned
for racing bikes to mitigate the effects of
engine braking.
SORN - Statutory Off Road
Notification. A motorcycle is declared SORN
when it is not taxed and kept off-road, a
legal requirement of the registered keeper
if the vehicle is not taxed. You may face
a fine is not submitted when your bike is
not taxed.
Speedway - Racing on an
oval-shaped dirt track, usually with four
riders competing simultaneously.
Sport bike - Motorcycle
designed with speed and handling a priority,
fully faired bikes.
Sport tourer - A motorcycle
designed for comfort on long journeys but
with reasonable handling and power.
Stoppie - Occurs when a
rider breks very hars causing the rear wheel
to rise in the air. Also called an endo.
Sulphuric acid - The liquid
(electrolyte) used in a lead-acid battery.
Poisonous and extremely corrosive.
Swinging arm - Rear suspension
by radius arms carrying the wheel and attached
to the frame at the other end.
