What is a slabside motorcycle?

Question

I want to know why some bikes are refered to as slabsides and what makes them different from other bikes. Also does it affect the performance in any way

Answer 1

Don't know what others think but i owned a 1985 GSXR 750 it was referred to as a slab-side model because the side panels (plastic panels from petrol tank to rear light) were exactly that flat.

Answer 2

Don't listen to the guys above, it has nothing to do with the carbs. Carbs with flat slides are called exactly that, FLATSLIDES, not slabsides...they have nothing to do with each other. The term slabside has nothing to do with performance, simply the styling of the bike.

Now, since you are asking this question, I assume you are looking into buying a motorcycle. Since it seems that you are a newbie( no offence), I would not be worried about anything affecting the performance of the bike. Look for a 500 Ninja, GS500, or something along those lines. Don't go out and buy the biggest, fastest thing you can get. Then you are just like other squid.

Please do not think I am trying to be harsh or rude. I am a supermoto racer and have experience road racing, as well as riding on the street. My father has ridden his entire life, as well as his father.

Answer 3

It simply refers to the rear panel design on some earlier Suzuki GSXR models:

"The first GSX-Rs are commonly referred to as Slabside, or "slabbies" due to their very flat side panels and tall narrow frames. GSX-R 750s from 1985-1988 are Slabside models, and the 1100 slabside was in production around 1986-1989."

So it would not affect handling in any way, shape or form. Other aspects of some of these models DO affect handling though!

Answer 4

The early GSX-R 750's had what were called "flat slide" carburettors which meant the slides, instead of being completely barrel shaped had a flat on the intake side of the carb. This was the bit the made it fast for its day (obviously not used anymore thanks to fuel injection)

The bikes also had flat side panels so this and the techno "flatside" story probably got mixed up by certain afficionados.

Here's a pic if its any help....

http://www.motorcyclespecs.co.za/Gallery%20%20A/Suzuki%20GSXR750%2085%20%203.jpg

Answer 5

Usually refers to older model suzuki gsxr's

It doesn't effect the performance in anyway its just that the older slabside bikes were just that.... old

Answer 6

it depends a the make of bike.
in my case i have a 66 shovel (harley) some will refer to the motor as a slab side, more commonly a shovel, more specificaly a pan-shovel, pan top, shovel bottom.
when someone uses language your not famiiar with ask then what they mean ,everybody has a different way of refering to the same thing.
hope this helps good luck.

Answer 7

the slabside or slabbie was the nickname for the old first generation GSX-R's