Press Release | March 12, 2021
Gates introduces its new Carbon Drive Moto X9 synchronous drive belt for internal-combustion-powered motorcycles, electric motorcycles and scooters.
This is a press release from Gates…
Denver, CO (March 11, 2021) – Gates, a leading global provider of application-specific fluid power and power transmission solutions—and a pioneer in belt-driven personal mobility—introduces the new Carbon Drive Moto X9 synchronous drive belt. This belt is designed especially for motor-driven two-wheelers, including internal-combustion-powered motorcycles, and electric motorcycles and scooters. Gates belt drives are light, quiet and require almost no maintenance making them far superior to chain drives. The innovative Moto X9 belt is also stronger and more durable than competing synchronous belts, offering OEMs the promise of even more compact, light-weight drivetrain packaging and enhanced vehicle performance.
Smaller Packaging Potential with Moto X9 vs. Previous Generation
“For more than 40 years, Gates products have demonstrated the benefits of a durable, quiet, low-maintenance belt-drive over traditional chain-drive for all kinds of two-wheel applications, and we never stop innovating,” said Joe Menzel, general manager, Gates mobility. “Moto X9 is our latest evolution designed specifically for personal and micro-mobility. Leveraging our materials science expertise and engineering advances, Moto X9 is stronger, allowing it to handle high torque with a narrower belt. With Moto X9, OEM engineers and product managers can specify more compact drivetrains on new or existing designs, optimizing packaging, saving production cost and enhancing their products’ performance and value for end users.”
Belt Drive Evolution in Width vs. Chain
Combining Gates’ latest ultra-high-tensile carbon-fiber cord construction with an optimized 11-millimeter tooth profile, Moto X9 can handle the same torque with a 9-percent narrower belt or a 10-percent smaller sprocket compared to Gates’ previous generation drive belt. This yields packaging, cost and weight savings, and potentially improves fuel efficiency or extends the range of an electric vehicle, while also enabling better acceleration, ride feel and handling due to reduced mass. Alternatively, improvements in Moto X9 construction can offer up to 84 percent longer service life vs. its predecessor, assuming the same torque, belt width, and sprocket size. Better performance and reduced maintenance mean increased customer satisfaction.
For more information, visit www.gates.com
