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What Is Slipper Clutch: Definition, Importance, Types & How Slipper Clutch Works [2024 Guide]

Team AckoJan 19, 2024

A slipper clutch is a crucial component in motorcycles, especially high-performance ones.

It allows the rear wheel to spin freely during sudden downshifts, preventing the wheel from locking and causing a loss of control.

In this article, we will explore the basics of a slipper clutch, including its definition, working mechanism, types, and benefits.

Contents

What is a Slipper Clutch?
How Does a Slipper Clutch Work?
What are the Parts of a Slipper Clutch?
Why are Slipper Clutches Used?
Types of Slipper Clutches
Advantages of Slipper Clutches
Disadvantages of Slipper Clutch
Installation and Maintenance of Slipper Clutches
- Top Bikes in India with Slipper Clutch
Frequently Asked Questions on Slipper Clutch

What is a Slipper Clutch?

A slipper clutch, also known as a back-torque limiter, is a special type of clutch that reduces the effect of engine braking during rapid downshifts.

It allows the clutch plates to slip against each other, creating a controlled slippage that prevents the rear wheel from locking up.

The slipper clutch is designed to engage and disengage the clutch smoothly, preventing damage to the transmission and other parts of the bike.

How Does a Slipper Clutch Work?

The crankshaft and clutch assembly turn faster during engine braking than the rear wheel.

In a traditional clutch, this difference in speed causes the rear wheel to slow down, leading to skids and loss of traction.

A slipper clutch, however, works differently.

The pressure on the clutch plates decreases as the rear wheel slows down, allowing them to slip against each other.

This controlled slippage reduces the torque transmitted to the rear wheel, preventing it from locking up.

What are the Parts of a Slipper Clutch?

A slipper clutch comprises several parts, including the clutch hub, clutch plates, pressure plate, and springs.

The clutch hub is connected to the crankshaft and rotates with it, while the pressure plate is connected to the clutch cable and can be pulled towards the hub to engage the clutch.

The clutch plates are sandwiched between the hub and the pressure plate and transmit power from the engine to the rear wheel.

The springs hold the plates together and provide the necessary pressure for the clutch to engage.

Why are Slipper Clutches Used?

The slipper clutch has several benefits over traditional clutches, especially in high-performance motorcycles. Here are the details.

Improved control: The slipper clutch prevents the rear wheel from locking up, allowing the rider to maintain control during quick downshifts.
Reduced wear and tear: The controlled slippage of the clutch plates reduces the stress on the gearbox, resulting in less wear and tear on the bike.
Smoother ride: The slipper clutch engages and disengages the clutch smoothly, resulting in a smoother ride and less jerky gear shifts.
Faster lap times: In racing, the slipper clutch can help riders achieve faster lap times by allowing them to brake later and carry more speed through corners.

Types of Slipper Clutches

There are three types of slipper clutches: Mechanical, Hydraulic, and Electromagnetic. Here are the details.

1. Mechanical slipper clutch

The mechanical slipper clutch uses a system of ramps and balls to achieve slip. When the engine braking torque is high, the balls are pushed up the ramps, forcing the clutch plates to slip against each other. This mechanism is simple and reliable but requires periodic maintenance to ensure the balls and ramps are clean and lubricated.

2. Hydraulic slipper clutch

The hydraulic slipper clutch uses a hydraulic piston to control the pressure on the clutch plates. When the engine braking torque is high, the piston moves forward, reducing the pressure on the plates and allowing them to slip against each other. This mechanism is more complex than the mechanical slipper clutch but more consistent and requires less maintenance.

3. Electromagnetic slipper clutch

The electromagnetic slipper clutch uses an electromagnetic coil to control the pressure on the clutch plates.

When the coil is energized, it creates a magnetic field that attracts the clutch plates, reducing their pressure and allowing them to slip.

This mechanism is the most advanced of the three but also the most complex and expensive.

Advantages of Slipper Clutches

Here are the pros of a slipper clutch.

Better control: A slipper clutch allows the rider to maintain better control over the bike, especially during rapid downshifts. It prevents the rear wheel from locking up and skidding, reducing the chances of losing bike control.
Smoother ride: Slipper clutches engage and disengage smoothly, making for a smoother ride and fewer jerky gear shifts. This can improve the riding experience and reduce rider fatigue.
Reduced wear and tear: Slipper clutches reduce the stress on the gearbox and other bike parts, resulting in less wear and tear. This can increase the longevity of the bike and reduce maintenance costs.
Faster lap times: In racing, slipper clutches can help riders achieve faster lap times by allowing them to brake later and carry more speed through corners. This can give racers a competitive edge on the track.

Disadvantages of Slipper Clutch

Here are the cons of a slipper clutch.

Increased cost: Slipper clutches are more complex and require more parts than traditional clutches, making them more expensive to manufacture and purchase. This can increase the cost of a bike equipped with a slipper clutch.
Additional weight: The added complexity and parts of slipper clutches can result in additional weight, reducing the bike's overall performance and handling.
Reduced engine braking: Slipper clutches reduce the effect of engine braking during rapid downshifts, which can take away some of the control experienced riders enjoy. Some riders may prefer the traditional clutch and engine braking setup.
Maintenance requirements: Slipper clutches require regular maintenance, including cleaning, lubrication, and inspection, to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Failure to maintain a slipper clutch can result in reduced performance and even failure.

Installation and Maintenance of Slipper Clutches

Installing a slipper clutch is a relatively straightforward process, but it requires some mechanical knowledge and experience. It involves disassembling the clutch assembly, installing the slipper clutch, and reassembling the parts. Following the manufacturer's instructions and using the recommended tools and lubricants is important.

Maintaining a slipper clutch is essential to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

This involves regular cleaning, lubrication, and inspection of the clutch assembly.

Any signs of wear or damage should be addressed promptly, and the parts should be replaced as necessary.

Top Bikes in India with Slipper Clutch

Here are some of the best bikes in India with a slipper clutch.

KTM Duke 390
KTM 390 Adventure
KTM Duke 250
TVS Apache RR 310
Yamaha R15 V3.0
Bajaj Dominar 400
KTM RC 390
TVS Apache RTR 200 4V Race Edition 2.0

Frequently Asked Questions on Slipper Clutch

Here are the answers to some common questions about slipper clutch in bikes.

Are slipper clutches only used in racing bikes?

No, slipper clutches are now commonly found in many high-performance street bikes as well. They are especially useful in bikes with high horsepower and torque output.

Can slipper clutches be retrofitted to older bikes?

In some cases, slipper clutches can be retrofitted to older bikes, but it is a complex and expensive process. It is best to consult a professional mechanic to determine if it is possible and practical for your bike.

Do slipper clutches require special maintenance?

Yes, slipper clutches require regular cleaning, lubrication, and inspection to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Failure to maintain a slipper clutch can result in reduced performance and even failure.

How do I know if my bike has a slipper clutch?

You can consult your bike's owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to determine if your bike has a slipper clutch. You can also consult with a professional mechanic for assistance.

Can slipper clutches be adjusted for different riding styles or conditions?

Yes, slipper clutches can be adjusted for different riding styles or conditions. It is best to consult a professional mechanic to determine the appropriate adjustments for your bike.

Are slipper clutches worth the added cost?

Slipper clutches are worth the added cost for high-performance bikes and racing. However, the added cost and maintenance requirements may not be necessary for casual riders. It ultimately depends on your riding style and preferences.

Disclaimer: The content on this page is generic and shared only for informational and explanatory purposes. It is based on industry experience and several secondary sources on the internet, and is subject to changes. Please go through the applicable policy wordings for updated ACKO-centric content, and before making any insurance-related decisions.