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The End of Chains?

  2. benjaminV
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Bikes with chains may be becoming an endangered species. Belt-driven bikes, which were introduced by boutique bike makers a couple of years ago, are just starting to hit the mainstream. Trek has introduced two new urban bikes for 2009 with belt drives rather than chains, and they look pretty sweet.

The benefit to a belt drive system over a chain and shifters system is that it won't stretch and break over time like a chain, weighs significantly less, stays clean (and keeps your cuffs clean) and is quiet. The downside? It's more expensive. The two bikes Trek has unveiled, the District and the Soho, will run you $930 and $990, respectively. But as with all new tech, the prices are always highest right when it starts hitting the mainstream. Look for bikes with belt drives to start coming from many more big bike companies for much less in the coming years.
benjaminV

3 responses // The End of Chains?

  •  

    well, although it is a good idea, i wouldnt be trustworthy of new designs, would love to try them. The article doesnt explain what materials are used for the belt. I def. would trust plasti anymore than I (don't) trust carbon gadgets.
    - If Trek is using it with the SoHo model, which is meant for an urban environment, I imagine then, that it is quite the tuff cookie.

    meligrosa
  •  

    This my be the direction drivetrains are headed.

    Belts have been used for years on motorcycles with no problems.

    The only hold back with bicycles is gearing.

    The belt works fine on single speeds.

    If it's not the belt drive it may be the shaft drive.

    Either way I don't see chains disappearing within my lifetime.

    Ride on!

    1percent
  •  

    I'm interested, but skeptical too. But, look at Truvativ's Hammerschmidt and it's "Planetary" mechanism thingy.

    It's an exciting time!

    nickwe3d

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