Off-Road Racing: Essential Lingo
Ascent – Driving up to the summit of a mountain or hill.
Break-Over Angle – The maximum angle at which a vehicle can drive over an obstacle without any underside damage
Chase Vehicle – A noncompetitive automobile that follows a competing one to assist with repairs
Co-Driver/Navigator – In rallying, this is someone who directs the driver through the course by reading navigational instructions while noting specific obstacles ahead. Historically called a navigator, the co-driver is also permitted to drive the car
Crest – The highest point of a mountain or hill.
Dust Lights – Amber-tinted lights mounted on a race vehicle to increase visibility in the desert. These are especially important when traversing through dark and dust-heavy desert courses.
Fire Suit – Flame-retardant clothing that drivers are required to wear while racing.
Livery – The paint and/or decals applied to a vehicle that depicts sponsorship or team identity.
Pit Stop – Designated stopping places for repairs, refueling and performing tire changes.
Podium – An elevated platform intended for winners to stand on. In some races, vehicles also appear on the podium.
Pre-Runner – A vehicle similar to the participant’s main vehicle, used to drive off-road courses before the race begins. These vehicles help familiarize the driver with the course and gain them a strategic advantage without having to put unneeded miles on their primary vehicle. They come in all shapes and sizes and some serve chase duty as well.
Racing Class – Vehicle groups used to separate who competes against who in larger races. They are based on skill level and vehicle specifications within each racing category. (Ex: Trophy Truck, Buggy, Pro UTV, etc.)
Rally – A type of off-road competition that involves participants racing from checkpoint to checkpoint on rough terrain.
Roll Cage – A structure of metal bars installed into the interior of a production-based racing car to increase safety in the event of a crash.
Rollover Angle – The maximum angle at which the driver can confront a hill without flipping over.
Short Course – A form of off-road racing held on a circuit track of less than 5 miles, typically run with cars modified to suit the terrain and length.
Special Stage (SS) – A closed-road section of a rally event where participants try to get the fastest time without being inhibited by their opponents’ presence.
Spotter – Someone assisting outside the participant’s vehicle to help them navigate the course with hand signals when visibility is limited. They help the competitor remain safe and prevent potential vehicle damage.
Whoops – Rolling hills often found on off-road race courses.
2WD – A type of vehicle where two wheels receive all the torque, typically providing better fuel efficiency.
4x4 – An off-road vehicle that contains four wheels with four-wheel drive.