General Knowledge MCQs
Topic Notes: General Knowledge
MCQs and preparation resources for competitive exams, covering important concepts, past papers, and detailed explanations.
Plato
- Biography: Ancient Greek philosopher (427–347 BCE), student of Socrates and teacher of Aristotle, founder of the Academy in Athens.
- Important Ideas:
- Theory of Forms
- Philosopher-King
- Ideal State
11
What is a 'scratch race' in track cycling?
Answer:
A straightforward race where the first across the line wins
The scratch race is the simplest track format: all riders start together, race for a set number of laps, and the winner is the first to finish.
12
What is a 'tandem'?
Answer:
A bicycle designed for two or more people sitting one behind the other
A tandem is a bicycle built for two riders. The front rider is the 'pilot' or 'captain', and the rear rider is the 'stoker'.
13
What is 'VO2 Max'?
Answer:
The maximum rate of oxygen consumption during incremental exercise
VO2 Max is a measure of aerobic fitness, indicating the maximum amount of oxygen an athlete can utilize during intense exercise.
14
What is the 'casquette'?
Answer:
A traditional cycling cap
A casquette is the classic cloth cycling cap with a small brim, worn under helmets or on the podium.
15
What is the 'headset'?
Answer:
The bearing assembly that allows the fork and handlebars to turn
The headset consists of bearings inside the frame's head tube, enabling the steering column to rotate smoothly.
16
What is 'ghost shifting'?
Answer:
Shifting gears without touching the levers
Ghost shifting is an annoyance where the bike spontaneously changes gears on its own, usually due to cable tension issues or frame flex.
17
What is the 'cobbled classics' surface called?
Answer:
Pavé
Pavé is the French term for the cobblestone roads found in races like Paris-Roubaix and the Tour of Flanders.
18
What is a 'thru-axle'?
Answer:
A wheel attachment system where a thick axle threads directly into the frame/fork
Thru-axles provide a stiffer and more secure connection for the wheels compared to traditional quick-release skewers, especially important for disc brakes.
19
What is a 'super tuck'?
Answer:
An aerodynamic descending position sitting on the top tube (now banned by UCI)
The super tuck involved the rider crouching on the bike frame's top tube to reduce drag. It was banned in 2021 for safety reasons.
20
What does 'TPI' stand for in tire specifications?
Answer:
Threads Per Inch
TPI refers to the density of the casing threads. Higher TPI generally means a suppler, lighter, and higher-performance tire.