Quarter mile and eighth mile (drag racing)

The quarter mile (about 402 m) and eighth mile (about 201 m) are the standard straight-line distances in drag racing. Magazine tests often quote a bike's quarter-mile time and terminal speed as a simple way to compare acceleration.

A run starts with staging: the rider rolls the front tyre into light beams at the start line. The pre-stage light shows the bike is close, the stage light shows it is in position, and then the start lights count down. The 60-foot time (first 18 m) shows how good the launch was and is the most telling number for rider technique.

Fast times need good traction, correct tyre pressure, controlled clutch release and keeping the front wheel down. Drag racing belongs on a closed track, never on public roads.