Are bike chains going to become a thing of the past?

[DogBunny]

Maybe this is somewhat old news, but it's new to me, and interesting...
Shaft-driven bike.

 

[jetmechmarty]

I watched this yesterday. It's not new and it's basic in case you don't want to waste the time.

 

[Mailman]

Maybe this is somewhat old news, but it's new to me, and interesting...
Shaft-driven bike.

That’s a slick bit of engineering! 9 speed front sprocket x 12 speed rear = 108 possible gear ratios!

 

[jetmechmarty]

That’s a slick bit of engineering! 9 speed front sprocket x 12 speed rear = 108 possible gear ratios!

That's huge when the engine is man (leg pistons).

 

[Mailman]

I watched this yesterday. It's not new and it's basic in case you don't want to waste the time.

I’ve had two shaft drive bikes and they are hands down my favorite drivetrain. Chains are a pain in the ass.

 

[jetmechmarty]

I’ve had two shaft drive bikes and they are hands down my favorite drivetrain. Chains are a pain in the ass.

My XS1100 is a shaftie and I've put 100,000 miles on it. I think I have maybe three spare differentials. I've never needed one, and probably won't.

New, the XS1100 cost 2-3 times more than the XS650. It is much cheaper to maintain, IMHO.

 

[RC4MAN]

I'm glad this is only on a bicycle. Mechanically I see all kinds of potential high load and wear related issues if there were any real power to be transferred or for any length of time.

 

[WideAWAKE]

Dog - it’s somewhat old new. Few years.

Good overview of their up sides and downside.

I think the chain is here to stay.