Comments on: Chain? Belt? Shaft? Which is Better?

By: Mike Haley

Mike Haley — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 00:22:07 +0000

I presently own all 3 types. Which is best? Assuming a track record of near perfect reliability of a specific make and model, personally I would opt for shaft drive. The fly in the ointment is that one manufacturer of shaft drive machines has less than a stellar record for ease of periodic maintenance, and reliability of drive line components.

I concur that chain drive lubrication can be messy but if properly applied not overly so. It is the easiest drive system to modify, change and maintain.

Belt drives can be the best of both worlds. I haven’t owned one long enough to say if it is superior to shaft or chain.

I recommend that a prospective buyer should read brand specific forums and learn what the owners have to say.

By: abdul khalique

abdul khalique — Sat, 16 Jan 2010 10:47:34 +0000

chain drive is better than other two ,but the chain completely secure with chain box.

By: Trevor

Trevor — Sat, 26 Dec 2009 20:21:31 +0000

I dont have any of those shaft issues on my 84 Honda Shadow 700. Maybe it depends on the make/model of the bike

By: Malcolm

Malcolm — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 07:47:32 +0000

They’re all great final drive systems, one more or less complicated than the other. I think that it is through necessity that someone would chose to narrow down between a chain, belt or shaft drive system.

Chain Drive = horsepower
Belt drive= robs horsepower but runs much smoother and lasts longer than a chain
Shaft Drives = I’ve never owned one, probably never will but I’m sure that in some alternate universe their cool somewhere. *scratches head*

By: chet

chet — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 01:34:18 +0000

I’ve had several bikes over the many years of riding , street and offroad bikes, chain, shaft
and a 08 harley dyna lowrider. have not had any trouble with any , just keep chains clean and lubed. The way I look at it about belt drives……. any belt drive that can stand up to a 600 to 900 pound motorcycle with 1200 to 1800 cc’s with gobs of power in all ranges must be one hell of a good setup. happy riding…………..Chet