What are the advantages or disadvantages of the shaft drive vs belt drive on a motorcycle?

Answer

The shaft drive is heavier than the belt drive and more expensive to repair. The belt may have a tendancy to slip with excess wear. Some riders say the shaft is more durable and requires little or no maintenance. Both run quiet and smooth when in proper working order.

Answer

The main disadvantages of shaft drive are weight, cost and a certain loss of horsepower due to friction. They are costly to repair, but that will hardly ever be necessary. The main advantages are smoothness, absence of oil spill, ease of maintenance and reliability. A shaft drive will normally never require a roadside repair, and an oil change each time you change rear wheel will normally be all you need to do about it. Hence, shaft drive is preferable for touring. A more sporting motorcycle will normally have chain drive due to the low weight, and partly because of looks. Chain drive is obligatory in most forms of racing, and a sporty look almost requires one. But chains may break or shed, and they need frequent attention. What you choose is, therefore, more a question of temperament and personal preference than anything else.

First answer by ID1198231567. Last edit by ID2180010796. Question popularity: 140 [recommend question]