WHAT IS A SLIPPER CLUTCH?
A slipper clutch provides better traction control for high-performance riders.
The clutch derives its name as a result of it partially disengaging, or “slipping,” when the rear wheel tries to drive the engine faster than it would run under its own power, particularly via engine braking.
The force of high-speed engine braking (with a conventional clutch) transmits back through the drive chain which can cause the rear wheel to hop, chatter or lose traction. (This is more pertinent to larger displacement four-stroke engines, which manifest greater engine braking force than smaller engines or two-stroke engines.)
ADVANTAGES OF A SLIPPER CLUTCH
♦ A slipper clutch reduces the adverse effects of engine braking when decelerating from high speeds into corners
♦ Slipper clutches also eliminate extra loading on the rear suspension to give riders a more predictable ride
♦ A slipper clutch can minimize the risk of over-revving the engine during downshifts
♦ The amount of force needed to disengage a slipper clutch is adjustable to suit the rider and application
♦ Further, in a worse case scenario, a slipper clutch can prevent a rear-wheel lockup in the event that the engine seizes or the transmission fails
Slipper clutches were introduced by John Gregory and TC Christenson on “Hogslayer,” the most successful drag racing motorcycle of the 1970’s.
