Slipper clutch

From CycleChaos
Jump to navigation Jump to search

Specialized clutches developed for racing motorcycles to mitigate the effects of engine braking when riders would decelerate as they entered corners. They are designed to partially disengage or “slip” when the rear wheel tries to drive the engine faster than it would normally. The engine braking forces in conventional clutches will normally be transmitted back along the drive chain causing the rear wheel to hop, chatter or lose traction. This is especially noted on larger displacement four-stroke engines, which have greater engine braking than their two-stroke or smaller displacement counterparts. Slipper clutches eliminate this extra loading on the rear suspension giving riders a more predictable ride and minimize the risk of over-revving the engine during downshifts. Slipper clutches can also prevent a catastrophic rear wheel lockup in case of engine seizure or transmission failure. Generally, the amount of force needed to disengage the clutch is adjustable to suit the application.