Chain vs Belt Drive

If you are considering purchasing an indoor cycling bike, it’s important to decide whether you want a chain drive bike or belt drive bike as these features change the way you feel during your exercise.

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side by side image of bicycle chain and belt drive system

Indoor Cycling 101

If you are considering purchasing an indoor cycling bike, it’s important to decide whether you want a chain drive bike or belt drive bike. These differences really change the way you feel during your exercise. The drive of your bike is the piece that connects the wheels and pedals together to move everything forward. You can choose between a belt drive mechanism or a chain.

What Is a Chain Drive?

A chain drive is similar to a bike you may have ridden as a kid! It’s usually the drive system on mountain bikes and many cycling bikes. It’s the chain that connects your wheels to the pedals and helps you move the bike forward. The feeling and sound of the chain are something that many people enjoy and pick if they want the consistency of a chain.

 

What Are the Factors I Need to Consider Before Purchasing a Chain Drive?

Maintenance is always something a rider should consider before purchasing a chained bike. You will need to lubricate your bike’s chain regularly (which can sometimes be messy). Sometimes the chain can break and will need to be replaced. The chain is higher in maintenance, but you do feel like you are riding an authentic outdoor bike which can better your cycling experience. 

 

What Is a Belt Drive?

A belt drive mechanism is a belt that connects your pedals to the wheels to keep your flywheel moving. The belt makes for a very smooth and almost silent ride. The belt does not require lubrication, nor do you have to replace it with a new belt.

 

What Are the Factors I Need to Consider Before Purchasing a Belt Drive?

A belt drive is very smooth, but it does not give you an authentic feeling of riding an outdoor bike. If you need to work out at night when your family is asleep, purchasing a belt drive might be better because the bike is so quiet.

 

What If I Am Still Unsure About Which Bike to Purchase?

If you are still a little unsure about which bike you might want to purchase, try out an outdoor bike chain drive or belt drive bike. Both will help you get in shape, so whichever decision you make, they will both be beneficial to your health. Comparing belt and chain is kind of like comparing running on a treadmill and running on an outdoor trail. It all depends on your preference. For a full list of Sunny Health and Fitness bikes: click here!

 

 

 

 

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2 comments

Sanjay

Chain for indoor cycle

Ed Beckert

Thanks for this helpful article! I was torn as to whether to purchase the chain or belt drive cycle. Your article made the decision clear for me. (I got the belt drive.)