I'm swapping out the 1-1/2" final drive belt on my '99 Dyna for a 1-1/8" so I can run a 150 tire. I ordered a Gates Polychain final drie belt from a vendor, and received a BDL belt from them.

Aside from finding BDL belts $15 cheaper elsewhere, is there any reason for me to be concerned about the quality? I was under the impression that Gates made the OEM belts for H-D, but I could be all wet there. Wouldn't be the first time.

Bottom line, is the BDL belt a quality piece that I don't need to worry about?

Thanks,
Dave

 

I would stay with the Gates.

 

Thanks, that's what my original research told me. I don't need to save a few bucks there while sacrificing quality.

 

Broke 3 BDL belts over 2 years before I realized they are crap. HD is pricy but sure beats changing them out all the time.

 

I did the same change on my 1990 Glide for the same reason and stayed with an H-D belt. I had heard of other brands breaking and stayed with what I knew. I've been riding belt drive Harleys for over twenty years and have only needed to replace one, due to stone damage, although it didn't break.

 

I ordered a BDL. After receiving it, I didn't like it. It looked cheap. I sent it back and stayed OEM. Glad I did !

 

That's why I questioned the BDL when I got it, it looked plasticky, if that's a word.