shredutah2
New Member
I am thinking about purchasing a bike that is shaft driven. I would like to convert it, if possible, to chain drive. Anybody know if this is even possible?
shaft driven question
- Thread starter shredutah2
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Flugtechnik
My bike is not transportation, it is a respite
Anything is possible with a little welding. But the question is why? Shaft drives rock!
Just because it is a shaft drive doesn't mean it isn't a CR. Check out the CX500 builds.
Just because it is a shaft drive doesn't mean it isn't a CR. Check out the CX500 builds.
crazypj
Split personality, I fake being smart
As mentioned, anything is possible but some are 'easier' than others.
If you have a V-Max the conversion is around $2,000
On some early Suzuki's and Honda's you can replace transmission from chain drive model (it's a bit more involved than that but is possible)
On some bikes, they were designed for shaft drive and will need major cutting and welding of cases to fit chain conversion
For the cost, it's easier to find a chain drive bike to start with
If you have a V-Max the conversion is around $2,000
On some early Suzuki's and Honda's you can replace transmission from chain drive model (it's a bit more involved than that but is possible)
On some bikes, they were designed for shaft drive and will need major cutting and welding of cases to fit chain conversion
For the cost, it's easier to find a chain drive bike to start with
I've never had to replace a chain or sprockets on my 35 year old BMW. But I also can't change gear ratios by simply changing sprockets.
My son has a Beemer K1200S or whatever it's called and it makes 150 hp and goes 150mph. It's shaft drive and goes quite fast enough for me.
Alternate ratios are rarely an issue unless there's been a huge change, lengthening swingarms is also only needed in really rare cases.
So either buy a chain driven bike if that's what you want to just cafe the shaftie.
Alternate ratios are rarely an issue unless there's been a huge change, lengthening swingarms is also only needed in really rare cases.
So either buy a chain driven bike if that's what you want to just cafe the shaftie.
shredutah2
New Member
Sweet thanks guys...I didn't go with the shaft driven honda but I did pick up a 1980 cb750 and its got some chain issues haha
fasterdammit
Life starts at 100
A little late here, but you guys are starting to change my mind about the whole shaft/chain drive option. I've got an '82 Maxim 750 that's about as bone stock as they come in my garage. My Dad's, really, but I want to café it w/ his permission ... and I was thinking of changing it to chain. Granted, it is a handful of nuisance (and good ol' USD too) to do I'm sure, but I thought it might offer more in regards to gearing, suspension, swingarm and tire options. I can't help but think it'd make tire swaps easier too. But if it's still generally acceptable ... hm ... maybe I'll just concentrate on other aspects at first.
fasterdammit said:
Those Maxims and Secas were one of the few bikes of that era that worked REALLY well as a shaft drive. I wouldn't bother changing it if I was you - you are not going to get any real performance gains compared to the hassle / headache / heartache ;D
You can adapt a Virago rear wheel / hub onto them to give you a spoked wheel option. Have a look over at XJ Bikes - there's a couple of builds over there that have done that. Still a bit involved, but do-able without a degree in rocket science.