My 530 O-ring chain is as quiet as the belt ever was. No mess. You have to oil the chain when it's hot (after riding). Let the oil thicken for 10 min. and wipe of the extra. Ya, chains may require a little more maintenance. I've adjusted the chain once in the last 600miles. If you buy a cheep chain or run 520 chain, they will stretch faster and be noisy. Belts are fine if you ride on nice days, were there's no sand or gravel.