Riemen / Gates belt explained

Belts are an alternative to traditional chains as a drivetrain component on bicycles. Belt drives use a toothed belt made from a durable and flexible material, such as carbon fiber, Kevlar, or polyurethane, to transfer power from the pedals to the rear wheel. Belt drives are gaining in popularity in the cycling world as they offer a number of advantages over traditional chains, including:

Low maintenance: Belt drives require minimal maintenance compared to chains, as they don't need to be lubricated, cleaned, or adjusted as frequently. This can save time and money over the life of the drivetrain.

Clean and quiet: Belt drives don't generate as much noise or dust as chains, which can make for a cleaner and quieter ride.

Durability: Belt drives are often more durable than chains, as they are less susceptible to stretching, wear, and corrosion. This can result in a longer lifespan for the drivetrain.

Efficiency: Belt drives can be more efficient than chains, as they don't suffer from the same frictional losses that occur with chain links rubbing against each other.

Belt drives are typically found on commuter and urban bikes, as well as on some high-end performance bikes. However, they do have some drawbacks to consider. Belt drives require specific frame and drivetrain components that are designed to work with the belt. This means that if you are upgrading an existing bike to a belt drive, you may need to replace the frame, bottom bracket, and other components to make it work.

Additionally, belt drives may not be suitable for all riding conditions, as they can be damaged by sharp rocks, debris, or impacts. Finally, belt drives may not be compatible with all types of bikes, such as full-suspension mountain bikes, due to limitations on rear wheel travel and chainstay design.

Overall, belt drives can offer a number of advantages over traditional chain drives, but it's important to consider the specific needs of your bike and riding style before making a decision.

There are several brands that make belt drives for bicycles. Here are a few popular options:

Gates Carbon Drive: Gates is a well-known brand that specializes in belt drives for bicycles. Their Carbon Drive system is used by many bike manufacturers and is available in a range of sizes and lengths. Gates belts are made from carbon fiber and are designed to be durable, efficient, and low-maintenance.

Continental: Continental is a German company that produces a range of rubber products, including belts for bicycles. Their Conti Drive system uses a polyurethane belt with carbon fiber cords for strength and durability. The Conti Drive system is compatible with a variety of bikes and can be used for both urban and off-road riding.

CDX: CDX is a brand that specializes in belt drives for bicycles. Their CDX system uses a carbon fiber belt and a patented CenterTrack design to provide efficient and smooth power transfer. CDX belts are available in a range of sizes and are compatible with a variety of bike frames and drivetrain components.

Pinion: Pinion is a German company that produces high-end bike components, including belt drives. Their Pinion C-Line system uses a carbon fiber belt and is designed for use with their own gearbox systems. Pinion belts are known for their durability, low-maintenance, and efficient power transfer.

These are just a few examples of brands that produce belt drives for bicycles. When choosing a belt drive, it's important to consider factors such as compatibility with your bike frame and components, the type of riding you will be doing, and your personal preferences.

Gates Carbon Drive offers two types of belt profiles for their belt drive system: the CDX and the CDN. The CDX belt profile is designed for high-performance and high-stress applications, while the CDN belt profile is designed for lower-stress and cost-sensitive applications.

While both the CDX and CDN belt profiles are compatible with Gates Carbon Drive sprockets, they are not interchangeable. This is because the two belt profiles have different tooth profiles and widths.

CDN belts are designed to work with sprockets that have a 9mm tooth profile and a 5mm width, while CDX belts are designed to work with sprockets that have an 11mm tooth profile and an 8mm width. Similarly, CDN sprockets are designed to work with CDN belts, and CDX sprockets are designed to work with CDX belts.

It is important to match the belt and sprocket types to ensure proper compatibility and performance of the belt drive system. Mixing different belt and sprocket types can result in improper fit, premature wear, and reduced efficiency of the drivetrain.