why is it that all race bikes run chains?!

Chains are very good at transfering power. They are the easiest to set up in a hurried situation. They allow for gearing changes much more easily. In a raceing application you're not worried about longevity. Most racing teams don't run o'ring chains because they rob a bit of power and again no worries about how long they will last. So. Racing tech doesn't really apply much to us. Generally we want a long life, little as possible maintance, and no worries. All of the current drive systems have good and bad points. I'm happy with my chain. If I had a belt,I'd most likely be happy with that too. Shaft drive I don't much like because of high cost when something goes wrong. And they do. Talk to some bmw folks for a bit.