Are chain drive bikes faster than belt drive bikes?

juggla · Borekit Bruiser Joined: 23 Sep 2004 Karma :

If so should i convert my bike to a chain??

McJamweasel · BCF Junkie Joined: 22 Mar 2002 Karma :

Yes, but only because the fastest bikes happen to be chain drive.

Don't convert, its not worth the hassle.
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Kickstart · The Oracle Joined: 04 Feb 2002 Karma :

Hi

Belts are actually better than chains in many ways, but are more difficult from a maintenance point of view (cannot be split, etc) and also tend to fail with far less warning.

Main reason to consider converting to a chain would be the cost of replacement parts. A belt needs no oiling, but otherwise lasts no longer and requires the removal of the swinging arm to replace (generally).

All the best

Keith
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juggla · Borekit Bruiser Joined: 23 Sep 2004 Karma :

ah ok thanks for that you guys

stinkwheel · Bovine Proctologist Joined: 12 Jul 2004 Karma :

101bhp, 90fl/lb of torque....belt drive

https://www.micapeak.com/DPG/buell/s2_thunderbolt.jpg
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“Rule one: Always stick around for one more drink. That's when things happen. That's when you find out everything you want to know.”
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Frost · World Chat Champion Joined: 26 May 2004 Karma :

Belt drive is in theory a much better system than chain drive. however in practise belts can stretch, skip, slip, which makes them not so ideal.

So long as the belt is looked after and replaced when needed you will have no trouble from it and might actually grow to like it Wink

Ste · Not Work Safe Joined: 01 Sep 2002 Karma :

NickD · World Chat Champion Joined: 20 Aug 2004 Karma :

Finglonga · World Chat Champion Joined: 27 Jul 2004 Karma :

stinkwheel · Bovine Proctologist Joined: 12 Jul 2004 Karma :

No cornering, No reduction in unsprung weight, No consistant road to tyre contact under power.
____________________
“Rule one: Always stick around for one more drink. That's when things happen. That's when you find out everything you want to know.”
I did the 2010 Round Britain Rally on my 350 Bullet. 89 landmarks, 3 months, 9,500 miles.

Ste · Not Work Safe Joined: 01 Sep 2002 Karma :

Chains don't always break the gearbox (or anything other than themselves) when they snap. Had one go on the at a fairly fast pace in the outside lane and it just snapped wedged itself to a gap (didn't damage anything) and that was that.