Straphanger

Maglev train

The Maglev in Shanghai is the world’s fastest train. While Transrapid claims the ride is smooth and quiet, the truth is that any straphangers will be in for a white-knuckle ride. Henry Blodget of Slate magazine describes his experience: “The car jerks from side-to-side like a jet in turbulence, the air outside whistles in protest, and the growl beneath the floor becomes a full-bodied roar. Just after the speedometer tops out, there is a pop and blur as the maglev headed in the other direction blasts past at an aggregate speed of 534 miles per hour“.

Straphanger (pronounced “strap hanger”)

1. *One who grips a hanging strap or similar device for support while riding as a passenger on a bus or subway.
2. One who uses public transportation.

Source

Slate: Mine’s Faster than Yours, Photo by: Zieak