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[Richard230]

BMW has come up with a maintenance-free chain that is supposed to last forever. However, they don't mention what the life of drive sprockets will be.  No word yet what a replacement chain will cost if you have to replace it, though. My guess is that it will cost as much as an engagement ring.  Here is the story:  https://www.mcnews.com.au/bmw-making-big-claims-for-new-maintenance-free-chain/

[BigPoppa]

I'll be watching the development and usage of this chain by S1000* owners. Although I'm not due for a chain replacement anytime soon, when I do need a new chain I'll definitely consider this one if it comes in a size that will work with our bikes.

[Fran K]

525 chain would have 2/8" wide sprockets and rollers a bit bigger than 520.  I am amazed at how many high performance bikes use only 1/4 inch wide sprockets.

Does BMW still use a paralever system that pretty much eliminates chassis jacking from shaft drive?

Took me a while engagement ring is not a transmission part.

[Richard230]

525 chain would have 2/8" wide sprockets and rollers a bit bigger than 520.  I am amazed at how many high performance bikes use only 1/4 inch wide sprockets.

Does BMW still use a paralever system that pretty much eliminates chassis jacking from shaft drive?

Took me a while engagement ring is not a transmission part.

Yes, they still use the Paralever system but on only the boxers and 6-cylinder models. All of their other bikes use chain drive. The Paralever has been redesigned over the years several times and finally seems to be reasonably reliable, even on the big GS models, provided that it is maintained properly.

[PWM]

Good topic - thanks OP for sharing.  Nowhere is BMW claiming the chain lasts "fore-ever" in fact they are clever at weasel-words such as mentioning  "unusual wear" which clearly indicates a service / replacement interval.  It's mechanical so once it starts to wear it will breakdown quickly.  Not knocking the material science - it is way cool - I would not hesitate to switch but let's be real about longevity - it will outlast typical designs that is true.

[JaimeC]

I couldn't help but notice that there is no mention of the material used in the X-Ring seals.  Those are still going to be relatively soft and pliable in order to form the seal and are the most likely to wear since they will be exposed to the constant movement of the links over the cogs.

If it's built to BMW's recent standards, it'll fail shortly after the warranty period expires.  You can take THAT to the bank.

[heroto]

Sorry for the thread hijack
What is the lifespan of a chain on an Energica?

[PWM]

Sorry for the thread hijack
What is the lifespan of a chain on an Energica?

A good question.  Certainly it is proportional to how one rides and conditions to a lesser extent.

Just an expectation - no more than 30kKm under normal conditions inclusive of sprockets or about the same interval the Ohlins will need a rebuild.  This assumes 500Km cleaning intervals.  I'm sure there are more experienced riders that can share better info.

[Richard230]

Sorry about the "forever" description, that was just a little poetic license to get your attention. 

[ultratoad]

I say bah humbug !!!!  Of course, I would even take a maintenance free chain that would go 50K !!!!  Yes, I hate cleaning, lubing and adjusting chains that much....  BUT unfortunately, you just can't beat a chain for performance and weight....

[JaimeC]

I say bah humbug !!!!  Of course, I would even take a maintenance free chain that would go 50K !!!!  Yes, I hate cleaning, lubing and adjusting chains that much....  BUT unfortunately, you just can't beat a chain for performance and weight....

Belts weigh LESS than chains.  As for performance; a brand new chain has less drag than a brand new belt.  HOWEVER, a belt never changes whereas an old chain has MORE drag than an old belt.

Chains if you go off road, or you have a need to make gearing changes such as for different racetracks.  Otherwise a belt is just better all around.  Quieter, cleaner, lighter and less maintenance.

[ultratoad]

I have belts....  Like them very much....  A belt system is NOT as efficient as a chain set-up....  Period....  AND show me a belt system that can deal with 200+ horsepower !!!!

[Crissa]

Chains are stronger, so are better for high torque/shock applications...

...But belts are more energy efficient.

And there are belts for high power applications.  Just go to the belt manufacturer, they'll offer one.

-Crissa

[DonTom]

Chains if you go off road, or you have a need to make gearing changes such as for different racetracks.  Otherwise a belt is just better all around.  Quieter, cleaner, lighter and less maintenance.

I always fear a belt will snap, as has happened to many in this forum.  I don't hear about that happening with chains.

There isn't much maintenance involved with a chain. That's a very minor issue, IMO.

I have all three types with my bikes, four  have drive shafts, three have belts, three have drive chains.  I would say each has advantages and disadvantages over the others.  There is no "best" or "worst" so take your pick.

-Don-  Reno, NV

[JaimeC]

I have belts....  Like them very much....  A belt system is NOT as efficient as a chain set-up....  Period....  AND show me a belt system that can deal with 200+ horsepower !!!!

How about 563hp?  Powerful enough?
https://bosshoss.com/supersport-bike/