Chains vs. Belt-Drives for E-Bikes: What's the Difference?
Written by: Rémy Rossi | November 22, 2024 | Time to read 4 min
What’s the best way to get those wheels turning? Find out the differences between chain-driven and belt-driven electric bikes.
More about the Author: Remy Rossi
Rémy Rossi is a bike writer, mechanic, and educator who got his start in community-based bike shops and co-ops. With a decade in the industry, he still wrenches on bikes when he can and plays bike polo on a fixie.
One way or another, engineers have to connect the pedals, gears, and rear wheel to propel the bike forward. The most common choice is the tried-and-tested chain that has kept our favorite two-wheelers rolling for centuries. More recently, clever bike designers created belt-drive systems that use a belt made from an ultra-durable polymer.
But wait, hold up— how do electric bikes work and which system is best? Belt drives are especially suited to the needs of an e-Bike but still make up the minority of electric bike models out there. I’ll explain each drive system's pros and cons to help you decide.
But wait, hold up— how do electric bikes work and which system is best? Belt drives are especially suited to the needs of an e-Bike but still make up the minority of electric bike models out there. I’ll explain each drive system's pros and cons to help you decide.
What is a chain drive?
We’re most accustomed to seeing chains wrapped around a bike’s gears— it’s by far the most common setup on standard and electric bikes. The chain has little gaps that fit around the teeth of the chainrings and cogs. The simplest setup is a single-speed bike but chains can also hop from gear to gear on multi-speed bikes thanks to the derailleur. For this reason, chain drives are also called the derailleur method of shifting gears.
Shifting between gears with a chain is typically quite crisp and responsive— I mean if it’s good enough for the pro bike racers, it’s good enough for us mere mortals. Chain drive systems require regular cleaning and lubrication, including the occasional adjustment. A well-tuned and maintained chain works great and bikes can be set up with a wide range of gear options.
However, bikes can be a nightmare when the chain isn’t properly cared for. Chains can stretch over time or begin to rust, which leads to clunky shifting. Chains will also unevenly wear out specific cogs if you typically stay in the same few gears as you ride. Lastly, chains are magnets for grime and dirt and can easily stain clothes and hands.
Shifting between gears with a chain is typically quite crisp and responsive— I mean if it’s good enough for the pro bike racers, it’s good enough for us mere mortals. Chain drive systems require regular cleaning and lubrication, including the occasional adjustment. A well-tuned and maintained chain works great and bikes can be set up with a wide range of gear options.
However, bikes can be a nightmare when the chain isn’t properly cared for. Chains can stretch over time or begin to rust, which leads to clunky shifting. Chains will also unevenly wear out specific cogs if you typically stay in the same few gears as you ride. Lastly, chains are magnets for grime and dirt and can easily stain clothes and hands.
Looking for a belt drive for your commute? Check out these city e-Bikes:
What is a belt drive?
Belt drives feature a durable belt made from polyurethane and nylon, including a strong carbon fiber core. You may hear these systems referred to as carbon belt drives. The advanced polymer belts are much longer lasting and don't require cleaning and lubrication like chains. Belt drives are virtually silent and won’t stretch over time, needing little to no maintenance.
The unique design of a belt drive means the bike needs to be set up a bit differently, however. Multi-speed bikes will need an internally geared hub and the belt requires a more complicated frame that opens somewhere along the rear triangle (to allow the belt to be installed/removed).
The unique design of a belt drive means the bike needs to be set up a bit differently, however. Multi-speed bikes will need an internally geared hub and the belt requires a more complicated frame that opens somewhere along the rear triangle (to allow the belt to be installed/removed).
The higher-end design makes belt drives significantly more expensive than chain systems, including brands such as Riese & Müller. Belt drives are most common on commuter and cargo bikes that experience heavy use in the city. Upway stocks several belt drive models for riders searching for that smooth and silent feel!
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Belt drive vs. chain pros and cons
Who is a belt drive bike suitable for?
There are big advantages to having a belt drive on your bike, but it’ll likely cost you a bit more than a traditional chain setup. The minimal maintenance and cleaner, rust-free benefits of a belt drive make it a great choice for these types of riders:
- Commuters who are tired of bike grease stains on their pants or who ride in wet weather.
- Bike tourists, bikepackers, and situations where snapping a traditional chain is the last thing you want while exploring a remote route.
- E-Bike riders who want a smooth, silent, and maintenance-free drivetrain
Final Thoughts
- Chain drives are more affordable, widely available, and offer crisp shifting with a broad gear range, but they require regular maintenance. Belt drives, while more expensive, provide a low-maintenance, quiet, and durable solution ideal for commuters and e-Bike riders. I’ll leave you with this last bit of advice, though.
Don’t get too hung up on whether the bike you’re interested in has a chain or belt— keep the bigger picture in mind and make sure your dream bike checks the most important boxes on your wishlist.
