Lancia Stratos Gr.5 flexi chassis

Sideways Flexible Chassis for Lancia Stratos Gr.5: Custom Preparation and Setup

The SWLSA1 chassis from Sideways is a soft and flexible replacement chassis, specifically developed for the Lancia Stratos Gr.5 body. Its flexi construction allows the car-chassis assembly to better adapt to track irregularities, improving tyre contact with the rail and providing a more predictable and grippy driving experience.

Function and Performance

A flexi chassis is one of the most common modifications in the preparation of slot cars for club competition or demanding recreational use. Unlike rigid stock chassis, the flexible version allows for controlled torsion in the structure, resulting in:

• Increased tyre contact surface in corners and camber.
• Better power transmission to the ground, especially on tracks with small imperfections.
• Smoother and more predictable handling.
• Reduction of disconnections on sections with elevation changes or track joins.

Compatibility

This chassis is exclusively designed for the Lancia Stratos Gr.5 models in the Sideways range. If you have the stock car and want to experiment with a softer setup, this is the direct replacement to do so without the need for additional modifications.

Assembly and Preparation

The assembly is straightforward: replace the original chassis of the car while keeping the rest of the components (motor, guide, braids, rear axle, tyres). It is a good starting point to fine-tune the setup before a race day or to personalise the car's response according to the type of track you usually race on.

If you are working on the car's preparation, remember to also check the guide height and the condition of the braids once the new chassis is installed, as the flexibility of the assembly may slightly alter the electrical contact geometry.

Ideal for…

• Club racers looking to improve the handling of the Lancia Stratos Gr.5 on track.
• Enthusiasts wanting to experience the difference between a rigid setup and a flexi one.
• Drivers competing on tracks with joins or irregularities where the original chassis loses grip.

Considerations

A flexible chassis is neither better nor worse than a rigid one in absolute terms: it all depends on the type of track, driving style, and the day's conditions. On very smooth and well-leveled tracks, a stiffer chassis may offer greater precision; on tracks with more variation, the flexi usually prevails. Testing both options is the best way to find your ideal setup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this chassis compatible with all Lancia Stratos models from Sideways?

It is specifically designed for the Lancia Stratos Gr.5 from Sideways. We cannot guarantee compatibility with other versions or bodies from the brand without confirmation from the manufacturer.

Do I need special tools to install this chassis?

No. The assembly follows the same process as any chassis replacement in slot cars: the appropriate screwdriver and basic preparation knowledge. It does not require modifications to other components.

Should I also replace the tyres when switching to the flexi chassis?

It is not mandatory, but taking the opportunity to check the condition of the tyres during disassembly is always a good practice. If they are worn or hardened, the chassis change will not yield its full potential.

On what type of track is the difference of the flexible chassis most noticeable?

The benefit is most evident on plastic tracks like Scalextric or Ninco with joins or elevation changes, where the flexi chassis allows for more consistent contact of all four tyres with the rail.

Does Sideways manufacture this chassis in other materials or hardnesses?

We can only confirm the flexible (flexi) version reflected in the reference SWLSA1. For other options in the range, please consult the updated Sideways catalogue.

The Sideways SWLSA1 is a flexible replacement chassis designed for the Lancia Stratos Gr.5 slot car. This flexi chassis improves tyre contact and overall handling on plastic slot car tracks, making it a popular upgrade for club racing and serious hobbyists. Compatible with Sideways Lancia Stratos Gr.5 bodies, it offers a straightforward installation and noticeable performance benefits on uneven or joined track surfaces. Available at Ministry of Hobby, your specialist slot car and scale modelling store.