Belt Drive Conversion

Gates Carbon Drive frame conversion

Gates Carbon Drive belt drive bicycles require a specialized frame. Unlike with a chain, it is not possible to open and rejoin a belt around the chain stay for installation. Instead, to install a belt you need to open the frame itself. While some bike manufacturers make frames for Gates belt drive, the available range is still fairly small. But if you don’t want to buy a specialty frame, another option is belt drive conversion of an existing frame.

Some road or hardtail mountain bike frames can be altered to allow Gates belt installation. For frame modification, you can remove a section of the seat stay and replace it with a custom splitter matched to the seat stay diameter. A frame jig is essential to stabilize the frame during cutting and installation of the splitter. Once the splitter is in place, installation of the front and rear cogs and belt installation and tensioning can proceed.

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Bike Knack offers conversion of frames for Gates belt drive by installation of custom-made splitters. Frame materials can be steel, alloy, titanium or carbon. Both internally geared hubs and single-speed systems are suitable. However, the frame will need a sliding rear dropout or eccentric bottom bracket to allow belt tensioning. Unfortunately, not all bike frames are suitable for this method of belt drive conversion. For example, ovalized or very highly tapered seat stays are unsuitable. If you would like to confirm the suitability of your frame, you can email us or phone Dave on 0437 017022

Our standard price for frame conversion is $350, much lower than typically charged by frame builders. Shipping costs within Australia will vary with frame size and weight, but can be calculated here. If you already own a suitable frame, frame splitting can offer a price-competitive entry point to belt drive use. We can also supply your choice of belt and front and rear sprockets: a full range of Gates products is available in our Shop.

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Sliding rear dropout, left, and eccentric bottom bracket, right

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