What is a common limitation of the bowline under cyclic loading?

• A. It forms a fixed loop that cannot untie.
• B. It loosens under cyclic loading unless backed up.
• C. It cannot be untied after loading.
• D. It is ideal for load-bearing without backup.

Answer: (B)

Under cyclic loading, a bowline tends to work loose because the tail can gradually slip back through the knot with each load-unload cycle. This movement reduces friction and lets the loop loosen over time unless a backup is added. Backing it up with a stopper knot or an additional hitch around the standing part prevents the tail from slipping, keeping the loop secure through repeated loading. That’s why this description best matches the bowline’s limitation. It’s also worth noting that the bowline can be untied after loading, so statements claiming it cannot be untied aren’t accurate, and relying on it for constant load without a backup isn’t ideal when cyclic loads are involved.