How does a slipper clutch work?

[aliveandkickin]

So what exactly is a slipper clutch, what are they for and how do they work. I keep hearing people talk about them but i have never had them explained.

[Chris.t.Collins]

google 'slipper clutch'

[rritterson]

in a nutshell:

it has springs that hold the clutch engaged. When the rear wheel tries to drive the engine too hard, the clutch disengages or "slips". That way, you don't get rear wheel hop when you downshift at high RPMS.