My new Sporty is the first bike I've had with a drive belt instead of a chain. I think it's great to have a rear wheel without chain lube slung all over it!

I was wondering how long a drive belt lasts. In the past I've usually had to replace chains after about 12,000 miles or so. How many miles are ya'll getting from your belts, and what are the signs that it's time to replace?

Thanks,
CBR

 

I got about 65,000 out of a belt on a Roadking, and it had a rock hole in the middle of it for a long time before it finally gave up.

Wife had 47,000 miles on a Low Rider and the belt was still in good shape.

Regards,

Bill

 

Don't really know... I have 13k on mine and it doesn't even look worn.....

 

My Sporty is my first HD. I love the belt drive. I've also heard that belts are hard to break and from the previous posts, sounds like they last a really long time.

 

Check the adjustment every once in a while, and they will last a very long time.

Getting 50,000, 60,000, or more miles out of a belt is very common.

 

i met a guy tonight with an awesome 95 sportster with lots of engine work done..dynoed at 115 hp/121fpt..he broke 2 belts within 150 miles from all the power the bike has..he converted to chain drive..

 

That's about twice the horsepower and torque that most Sportsters are running.

Still sounds a little extreme as far as belt life.

Number of guys are running 105+ RWHP built SE 103" engines in their bikes with belt drives, and I haven't heard of problems.

Guess it depends on your driving habits as well.

 

he has alot done to this bike its really nice..he has over 20 grand into it between paint and all the engine mods and other accessories..i saw both of the belts hanging in the garage,one of them had alot of the teeth ripped right off of it..the bike is for sale also..he didnt say how much

 

I have 28K miles and still going strong, you should be able to expect over 50K easily if aligned and no infractions accrue.

 

Mine went a couple years ago, In think it was around 65,000 Km's. It was a lot to replace, the belt alone was at least $300 Canadian.