This paper is intended to investigate the electromagnetic flux distribution and side-force characteristics of a transverse flux linear switched-reluctance machine (TFLSRM) by three-dimensional finite element method. With the flux path perpendicular to its moving direction, results showed that the TFLSRM is quite suitable for high speed linear motion applications, due to the generated electromagnetic side-force which enhance the overall system guidance. From comparison analysis, conceptual design suggestions on the machine pole shapes will also be supplied.