What Are Axis Sliders? Definition, Meaning and Concept

Axle sliders are small devices that attach to the outer edge of a motorcycle's front and rear axles. Designed to prevent the axle from sinking into the pavement in the event of a crash or scrape on the low side, axle sliders are a must on most pavement motorcycle racing. Typically designed to bolt onto the axle, axle sliders can be easily removed or replaced with common hand tools in just a few minutes by a novice mechanic. Typically made of rock-hard Delrin, nylon, or aluminum construction, sliders keep the motorcycle lifted slightly off the road surface in the event of a crash, limiting the amount of damage that occurs to the frame, engine and body panels. of the motorcycle

Commonly used in tricks or shows, axle sliders are usually combined with frame sliders to allow the motorcycle to slide easily over pavement without damaging the bike. The small devices resemble skateboard wheels and can often be color-coordinated with the motorcycle, making them difficult to detect. When used in a road racing application, the axle sliders prevent the axles from digging into the racing surface when the motorcycle leans excessively into a corner. This can prevent a crash and minimize both the damage to the track and the bike.

Many race teams install mini versions of the sliders on the bottom of the footpegs to prevent an accidental rubbing of the peg on the track from causing a crash. Using the axle sliders also helps remove the axle nut when changing a tire as the nut no longer scuffs and sharpens due to incidental contact with the racing surface. Slider knob versions are also available for use on handlebar ends, swing arms and shocks. Many manufacturers offer complete kits to protect the entire motorcycle.

On street-riding motorcycles, axle sliders can prevent costly damage to the motorcycle's swing arm and front forks in the event of a crash. The bike will slide on the axle sliders instead of the more expensive swingarm or sprocket components, saving a great deal of expense on bike repair. Sliders are easily replaceable for a fraction of the repair cost of demolition without the aid of sliders. The benefit of axle sliders is so beneficial that some motorcycle manufacturers are starting to install the sliders on their new line of motorcycles.