Post by wayne on Jun 30, 2020 0:04:43 GMT -5
This is adapted from a post by Steven Silvestri who has some high mileage RE5s including a 200,000 miler (in 2020): Photos will be added.
The belt drive story.
Yes, it is smoother with the belt. Ride a chain drive bike, then the belt drive is noticeably different at all speeds. It's also very quiet. Gearing is a little taller due to pulley availability (23/68 gives 2.96:1, stock chain 14/43 gives 3.07:1).
It seems happiest at 4,000rpm, but this is pushing 70mph or more. Still pulls hard when you rev it.
The rear pulley is off an LS 650 Suzuki, The belt is from a Harley bagger (late model 1" wide 139 tooth).
The front pulley started as one from the LS 650, with much machining and such. Took it to a local machinist buddy, ask for the mods, he said he could make it from scratch easier. Bit of luck there. He cut the center out and matched an old front sprocket to retain the shaft splines and fit. The pulley width matches the belt and off we went. Did have to make clearance on the inside of the sprocket cover. I have the same setup on a 76. It too is smoother and quieter.
You have to adjust the belt religiously every time you change a tire.
Am working on pictures, most parts are available off the shelf, the front pulley is the toughest. It's an adventure to create and install. You lose the chain guard.
I have worried about rocks getting inside the belt but none have. Luck I guess.
Is it worth it? Ride a chain drive, especially one with miles on it, then ride the belt with 100,000 miles. No contest. It does make the stock lower geared bikes seem like they really rip, but they push 60mph at 4grand, like the factory intended.
Steven with his 200,000 miler. Note the belt drive conversion:
The belt drive story.
Yes, it is smoother with the belt. Ride a chain drive bike, then the belt drive is noticeably different at all speeds. It's also very quiet. Gearing is a little taller due to pulley availability (23/68 gives 2.96:1, stock chain 14/43 gives 3.07:1).
It seems happiest at 4,000rpm, but this is pushing 70mph or more. Still pulls hard when you rev it.
The rear pulley is off an LS 650 Suzuki, The belt is from a Harley bagger (late model 1" wide 139 tooth).
The front pulley started as one from the LS 650, with much machining and such. Took it to a local machinist buddy, ask for the mods, he said he could make it from scratch easier. Bit of luck there. He cut the center out and matched an old front sprocket to retain the shaft splines and fit. The pulley width matches the belt and off we went. Did have to make clearance on the inside of the sprocket cover. I have the same setup on a 76. It too is smoother and quieter.
You have to adjust the belt religiously every time you change a tire.
Am working on pictures, most parts are available off the shelf, the front pulley is the toughest. It's an adventure to create and install. You lose the chain guard.
I have worried about rocks getting inside the belt but none have. Luck I guess.
Is it worth it? Ride a chain drive, especially one with miles on it, then ride the belt with 100,000 miles. No contest. It does make the stock lower geared bikes seem like they really rip, but they push 60mph at 4grand, like the factory intended.
Steven with his 200,000 miler. Note the belt drive conversion: