Belt drive bikes explained: everything you need to know, with Gates
Belt drives are showing up on more and more bikes. But what exactly are they, who are they for, and do they suit the way you ride? To find out, En Roue Libre sat down with Nicolas Le Carré of Gates, 25 years in the bike industry, and four professionals who sell and design belt-driven bikes every day.
Four field reports
Loïc Errand (Ciel bike shop, Bayonne) shares two and a half years of selling belt-drive bikes by the sea. Lucas Chevalier (UTO, formerly Eovolt) explains how a belt fits into the design of a folding e-bike. Nicolas from Bobiclou, a five-store French network, describes daily life in a belt-drive shop chain. And Marc Meyer (Vélo de Ville) brings 60 years of German manufacturing and a long-term view.
Your questions, answered
Does a belt stretch? Does it work in mud? Is there any efficiency loss? What about maintenance and lifespan? Is it compatible with mountain bikes and suspension? Nicolas Le Carré answers the questions sent in on Instagram.
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