Originally Posted by
wphamilton
Why notched belts on bicycles? I know it may be a dumb question with a simple answer but ... I understand that those belts are optimal on motorcycles with high torque requirements, but are low hp V belts ever used on bicycles? It seems like alignment, tensioning and slippage would no longer be issues, and bicycles are fractional HP.
Bicycles have huge torque spikes to deal with. Picture a 200 lb man standing on the pedals mashing up a hill, or a conditioned racer accelerating. The peak torque could surpass a smaller motorcycle engine.
I like the belt concept. Not sold on the practicality. I've broken chains on a ride & fixed them in less than 10 minutes. Break a belt, walk home.