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I don't run belts cheap or otherwise, there is a small amount of stretch that robs power, not much but it's there. My condolences on the sportster. Don't know what kind of cheap crappy chains you use but big HP bikes run chains because they shred belts and I am not talking about a measly 115hp.


I understand that the big HP bikes run chains, but those aren't daily rider bikes either. Sport bikes don't throw down the torque. Those 124+ hp big twins still can't put down the acceleration off the line that a good ole hot rod sportser can. my bike makes 115hp and 98ft/lbs but weighs 419lbs. I embarrass biger twins and a lot of sportbikes from light to to light and on the 1/8th. I hold my own in 1/4. And I'm only 1250cc. There is only so much room on a stock frame for a tire and chain combo. My ETs and speeds are the same averages with chain or belt. When I throw on that skinny M&H slick at the drags, have to do a chain adjustment every 4-5 runs. No adjustments with a belt. I run chains when I do dirt drags because I have shredded belts from debris on the track.

And how does belt stretch rob power?? it is still the same amount being transferred. Where is the loss of energy?? The advantage to a belt drive is the lack of stretch and quiet operation. Belts do have an issue with whipping if the distance between pulleys is substantial. You'd need a roller tensioner, same as with a chain. My bike dynos the same amount with chain or with belt. By what you are saying, if you switch to a chain, you should gain rear wheel power. I don't think so. I guess a Buell XB1200 with a chain is faster then a Buell XB1200 with a belt. Guess Guess i should tell all the track racers about that so they can get that free horse power...Does this also mean that the cush drive on our bikes robs power vs direct drive??

Maybe all the accessories on your auto engine will run better with a chain drive?? Maybe Roots style superchargers need chains too?? Timing belts aren't as accurate as chains?? Steel stretch is permanent and will eat steel sprockets to death. Belts wear and usually only eat aluminum sprockets. I learned the hard way with aluminum sprockets vs steel with a belt.

Life may begin at 30, but it gets really interesting around 150!