Belt or Chain
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Joined: Feb 2006
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Belt or Chain
I am building a custom with a TP 107 engine, Baker Left Side Drive 6 speed tranny, 230 rear tire, in a rigid frame. Trying to decide on whether to run a chain or belt... And I am aware of all the pro's and con's of both. Would like a nice middle of the road gearing, not too low and not too high. Basically I am trying to decide on what size sprockets or pulleys to get for gearing. Anyone running something similar? Word is, this tranny is pretty close to stock gearing except for the overdrive. I hear the numbers 24 / 48 for the chain drive. Any opinions or suggestions?
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Big Kahuna HDF Member
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 86,081
Likes: 118
From: Snottsdale, Az
RE: Belt or Chain
Frogwash I would go with a chain drive you have alot of HP in that motor and I think a chain would work the best. No need in breaking a belt when you really get on it. My .02
RE: Belt or Chain
Just wanted to post another opinion. I have helped build many bikes with belts or chains with engines that had a great deal more power than the 107 your using. A chain is most definently stronger than a belt like millzog said. But a belt will hold up with no problems. I run belts all day long on 110 revtechs & 113/124 s & s engines and havent had many problems. I thinkg the belts we use are "Bullet Proof" brand name, I think. I do know of braking a belt on a 124's though. Good luck.
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Cruiser
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 118
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RE: Belt or Chain
My rule of thumb building customs...Anything over 100ci/hp go with a chain. Anything under that - go with a belt. Chain may be louder - but , you won't be stuck on the side of the road from a broken belt.
Extreme HDF Member
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 13,389
Likes: 26
From: Windham,Maine
RE: Belt or Chain
The motor size should not affect drive system,the tire is the factor.I know several people who are running belts,with stock tires that constantly beat on their bikes and are still running stock belts.One friend has over 35,000 miles on his and you just would not beleive how savage he is with his.One friend has a 155" in a Bourget frame,he has no problems.More food for thought.Good luck.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 12,946
Likes: 32
From: Colorado Springs, CO
RE: Belt or Chain
The new belts are Kevlar construction, seem to be pretty stout.......
You guys are right though......Chain would be safer, but I believe the belt will withstand the 107.
Something to consider......Chains are MESSY!!!! That's why I like belts......[&:]
But if I was building a 140 H.P. bobber for bar hopping with the guys, I'd go chain, simply because of the power.....[&:]
joe
You guys are right though......Chain would be safer, but I believe the belt will withstand the 107.
Something to consider......Chains are MESSY!!!! That's why I like belts......[&:]
But if I was building a 140 H.P. bobber for bar hopping with the guys, I'd go chain, simply because of the power.....[&:]
joe
Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 3,229
Likes: 105
RE: Belt or Chain
ORIGINAL: frogwash
I am building a custom with a TP 107 engine, Baker Left Side Drive 6 speed tranny, 230 rear tire, in a rigid frame. Trying to decide on whether to run a chain or belt... And I am aware of all the pro's and con's of both. Would like a nice middle of the road gearing, not too low and not too high. Basically I am trying to decide on what size sprockets or pulleys to get for gearing. Anyone running something similar? Word is, this tranny is pretty close to stock gearing except for the overdrive. I hear the numbers 24 / 48 for the chain drive. Any opinions or suggestions?
Thanks
I am building a custom with a TP 107 engine, Baker Left Side Drive 6 speed tranny, 230 rear tire, in a rigid frame. Trying to decide on whether to run a chain or belt... And I am aware of all the pro's and con's of both. Would like a nice middle of the road gearing, not too low and not too high. Basically I am trying to decide on what size sprockets or pulleys to get for gearing. Anyone running something similar? Word is, this tranny is pretty close to stock gearing except for the overdrive. I hear the numbers 24 / 48 for the chain drive. Any opinions or suggestions?
Thanks
Chains have been around for ages. The technology has advanced. They are strong and I don't think anything looks as cool as a chrome plated chain drive with polished chrome sprockets.
The belt is strong, quiet, and doesn't have the maintenance problems of chains. But ya can't chrome plate a belt.
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Extreme HDF Member
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 13,389
Likes: 26
From: Windham,Maine
RE: Belt or Chain
For a long time I was real antzy about belts,and I have broken a few primary belts.But after seeing the abuse some of them take,I am not the least bit hesitant now to use one.This new machine I am putting together will start out with a belt,and IF I do break, the chain and sprockets will go on.I have to say running a chain makes a statement.A good one I might add!
Cruiser
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 187
Likes: 4
From: Auburn, OH (East of Cleveland)
RE: Belt or Chain
The 24/48 numbers you reference seem a bit to close for a final drive ratio...which would be good for top end speeds. For more torque & low end (1/4 mile) speed you should look into a higher ratio. I'd say at least 2.4-(20 tooth front & 48 tooth rear). Check out what stock ratio is & then modify from there. My old GSX-R (Wheelie Machine runs a 3.5 - 14 tooth Frt. & 49 tooth Rr.)