Performing a wheelie on a motorcycle involves lifting the front wheel off the ground, and the specific style determines what a front wheelie is called. The most common term for this maneuver is simply a "wheelie," which describes the act of balancing on the rear wheel while the front hovers above the surface. This basic definition covers everything from gentle lifts at slow speeds to aggressive, high-speed launches that require significant throttle control and balance. Understanding the precise terminology helps riders communicate effectively and set realistic expectations for mastering this fundamental skill.
The Standard Definition of a Wheelie
When asking what is a front wheelie called, the direct answer is that it is primarily just referred to as a wheelie. This action occurs when the rider applies excessive power, causing the rear wheel to accelerate rapidly while the inertia tries to flip the bike over the handlebars. The rider counters this by pulling back on the handlebars, shifting their weight backward, and using the throttle to stabilize the front wheel in the air. It is a dynamic balance between throttle input and body positioning that defines the core of the maneuver.
Distinguishing Wheelies from Endos
A specific variation often confused with a standard wheelie is called an endo. While a wheelie involves lifting the front wheel by applying power, an endo is a braking maneuver that drives the front wheel down forcefully while lifting the rear wheel. The pivot point of the bike flips, sending the rider over the handlebars in the opposite direction of a traditional wheelie. Therefore, distinguishing between these two moves is critical for safety, as an endo requires a completely different set of controls to execute without crashing.
The Mechanics and Physics Involved
The physics behind what is a front wheelie called relies heavily on the concept of weight transfer. When the rear wheel spins rapidly, it pushes the bike forward, but the resistance from the ground creates a rotational force that tries to tip the bike backward. By applying the brakes slightly or pulling up on the handlebars, the rider creates a counter-torque that lifts the front wheel. Mastering this requires an understanding of leverage, as the rider uses their arms and legs as a counterbalance to keep the center of gravity directly above the rear wheel.
Low-Speed vs. High-Speed Execution
The classification of a wheelie can change based on speed, affecting what a front wheelie is called in technical terms. At low speeds, the maneuver is often described as a "power wheelie" or "brake wheelie," where the rider uses a combination of throttle and clutch to inch the front wheel off the ground. At high speeds, usually exceeding 40 mph, the same action is referred to as a "rolling wheelie" or "full throttle wheelie," requiring precise throttle modulation to prevent the bike from flipping over the handlebars violently.
Low-Speed: Focuses on clutch control and gentle throttle to lift the front wheel while moving slowly.
High-Speed: Relies on maintaining momentum and using body weight to balance the bike in the air.
Manual: A pedal bicycle version where the rider rocks back and pulls up on the handlebars.
Brake Wheelie: Initiated by aggressive braking followed by a sudden application of power.
Safety Considerations and Risks
Regardless of the specific name, attempting what is a front wheelie called comes with inherent risks that riders must respect. Losing balance during a wheelie can result in a "endo," where the front wheel slams into the ground violently, potentially throwing the rider over the handlebars. To mitigate these dangers, riders should practice in controlled environments, wear full protective gear, and gradually build their throttle control. Respecting the limits of the motorcycle and one's own skill level is the most responsible approach to this stunt.
