The belt drive is now being used more and more on e-bikes . Although the technology has been around for more than ten years and is also used on conventional bicycles, the drive only really became popular around two to three years ago - which was also due to its further development.
The belt drive is usually made of carbon fibers. These run over two pulleys. In the following guide, we will explain in more detail what advantages and disadvantages this form of e-bike drive offers and what else is important.
The most important requirement is a bottom bracket or hub gear . In principle, belt drives cannot be combined with a derailleur gear. If the frame of the e-bike has vertical dropouts, a belt tensioner must also be installed because the belt needs a certain amount of tension. This is the only way it can function correctly.
This is not necessary if the dropouts are in a horizontal position. This also allows the rear wheel and belt to be moved or tightened accordingly.
In general, belt drives are suitable for every
e-bike , provided the requirements mentioned above are met. Only then is a conversion possible - but it is almost always profitable. It is also important that the belt line is absolutely straight, because this is the only way it can function smoothly and correctly. This also prevents premature wear. It should be noted that the belt must not be bent. Otherwise, this can lead to irreversible damage.
Structure of the E-Bike Belt Drive
A closed e-bike drive belt is made of particularly high-tensile carbon fibers, which are characterized by low wear. Even with heavy loads and intensive use of the e-bike, there is hardly any wear.
The inside of the belt has teeth. These are used to grip into the respective recesses that the pulley has. Basically, the principle of the structure is similar to that of a derailleur, but the way it works is very individual.
Manufacturers and costs of belt drives for the S-Pedelec
There are now many manufacturers of high-quality belt drives for S-Pedelecs . Models from the renowned manufacturer Gates Carbon Drive are very popular, but the Contitech Power Transmission Group also offers high-performance, high-quality systems.
There are now numerous e-bikes that are equipped with a belt drive straight from the factory. This usually doesn't have a big impact on the purchase price - but it's always worth paying attention to, as this type of drive is considered to be particularly durable.
If an e-bike belt drive is to be retrofitted to an S-Pedelec, it is difficult to give a general estimate of how much this will cost. The frame lock in particular has individual costs that are not easy to calculate. Depending on the model, you should budget between 150 and 300 euros for the drive alone. This sounds like a lot of money at first, but it quickly becomes relative when you consider the cost of a high-quality S-Pedelec.
E-bike belt drive - what do you have to pay attention to?
There is now alarge selection of different Pedelecs and e-bikes on the market, so it can quickly become a challenge for buyers to find the right model. Even experts argue about whether a belt or chain drive is the better option.
From a purely technical point of view, belts with lower power can be expected to have higher resistance. If the power is correspondingly higher, however, the power transmission is better and more direct. Basically, an e-bike belt drive is something for bikers who like to travel at higher speeds and who generally have a high mileage.
Pedelecs have clear advantages . However, it is important to check the toothed belt regularly for any damage. If there is any, it should be repaired as soon as possible so that it does not spread and potentially become very expensive.
High performance, weather resistance, low maintenance and durability are the characteristics that a belt drive brings to a Pedelec. It is visibly less sensitive to external influences than other types of drive. However, this does not automatically mean that visible damage to the drive cannot occur, which requires professional repair.
If you notice fine hairline cracks in the frame, frayed teeth or broken parts, you should definitely have the bike examined by an expert. It may then be necessary to replace the timing belt.
Is a belt drive recommended for the e-bike?
When looking for the right electric bike, many factors come into play. However, people often forget how important the built-in drive is. Paying attention to the presence of a belt drive is worthwhile in many ways, as the guide above shows.
If you want to enjoy your electric bike for a long time without having to constantly maintain it, you should invest a little more in good quality. Then you can be sure that the drive will not let you down even under greater strain.
Before buying, however, it is worth comparing different models, as other aspects are of course also important - such as engine power, range or the braking system.
Popular e-bike with belt drive
The MYVELO E-Bike Tokio is an affordable model that combines the benefits of a belt drive with a powerful rear wheel motor. This e-bike offers a clean, low-maintenance and quiet ride thanks to its belt drive, which also ensures high durability and reliability.
The powerful rear wheel motor provides powerful and consistent assistance, ideal for urban commuting and longer distances. With its minimalist single-speed design and a robust frame, the MYVELO Tokio combines efficiency and style without losing sight of financial accessibility.
Overall, the MYVELO Tokio is an attractive option for anyone who wants to experience the benefits of a modern belt drive at an affordable price.
