Slipper clutch
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Slipper clutches are 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. 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. Slipper clutches are now gradually being installed on production four-stroke motorcycles such as the Yamaha YZF-R6, YZF-R1 LE and the Kawasaki ZX10 R, and are available as retrofit for many other models. Slipper clutches have also been used on automobiles. One-way sprag-type clutches have also been used for the same purpose, but are generally not adjustable for disengagement force.
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