Here are 5 Amazing E-Bikes Featuring a Gates Carbon Belt Drive

The sweet and simple belt drive is becoming more popular for bicycles of all shapes and sizes than ever before, and for good reason. A greased-up roller chain has been the standard power transfer system on bicycles since the late 1800s. And for good reason: it’s simple, and it works. While many might say, “If it ain’t broke don’t fix it,” the good folks over at Gates Corp., have a different view: It ain’t broke, but it sure can be improved upon.

Gates Corp. is the company responsible for the Carbon Drive system, a high-performance chain-replacing technology that consists of two metal sprockets and a high-strength, carbon fiber embedded belt. The Gates Carbon Drive, or “belt drive” as it has come to be known, is a completely grease-free, low-maintenance alternative to a standard roller chain. It’s capable of handling the same or greater maximum load standards as a chain drive, so it can be ridden hard. And since there’s no meeting of metal on metal, a bicycle with a belt drive is virtually silent.

It is lighter than a chain, won’t stretch or break down quickly, and won’t leave that telltale grease mark on the bottom of your pant leg – a particular bonus for riders who bike commute in fancy duds. If the belt gets dirty, simply hose it off.

Attracted to the idea of a drive system that is clean, quiet, and basically maintenance-free, many riders are increasingly turning to the Carbon Drive system. However, it does come with one significant drawback. Since the belt cannot be broken and reattached, the Carbon Drive system requires a purpose-built bicycle. There are a growing number of brands using belt drives including some e-bikes, although not as many just yet.

To that end, we’ve pulled together a list of a few great e-bikes with a belt drive system. We expect to continue adding brands to this list for years to come.

Priority e-Classic Plus

Priority Bicycles, celebrated for their high-quality, low-maintenance belt drive bikes, has unveiled its latest offering, the e-Classic Plus e-bike. This new model champions simplicity, delivering the convenience of pedal assist without the cumbersome weight and intricacy often seen in other e-bikes. Despite its modern features, the e-Classic Plus holds onto the traditional appearance of a bicycle, ensuring riders a genuine cycling experience.

The e-Classic Plus boasts a low-drag 250W motor complemented by an integrated 374Wh battery. This combination promises riders up to 60 miles of uninterrupted cycling. Key features enhancing its usability include the rust-free Gates Carbon Drive Belt, a Shimano Nexus 3 drivetrain, and three levels of pedal assist to suit varying needs. The bike’s design emphasizes an upright riding posture, backed by a durable, rust-resistant aluminum frame adorned with composite fenders.

Priority E-Classic Plus

Safety hasn’t been overlooked. Priority Bicycles has equipped the e-Classic Plus with integrated front and rear lights, powerful hydraulic disc brakes, and a brake indicator, ensuring riders feel secure on their journeys.

As the e-bike market experiences significant growth, the e-Classic Plus emerges as a refreshing choice. It caters specifically to recreational riders keen on an efficient, straightforward travel method. For those interested, there’s a current promotional offer, discounting the bike to $1,399 from its original $1,699 price tag.

 

Tern HSD 

Tern, a notable urban mobility brand, presents its revamped HSD compact e-cargo bike. Initially launched in 2019, the latest HSD iteration remains compact while stepping up as “stronger and smarter.”

Addressing urban commuters and cargo aficionados, the Tern HSD offers a uniquely shorter frame than most cargo bikes, ensuring easier navigation through the city bustle. Its petite stature doesn’t compromise its strength, boasting a maximum gross weight carriage of 397 pounds. Reinforcements have increased frame stiffness by 15% at the headtube and 39% at the bottom bracket for enhanced riding and handling.

A highlight is its beefed-up rear rack, supporting up to 176 pounds—ample for hefty cargo or an adult passenger. Tern ensures the HSD combines the utility of a cargo bike with the nimbleness of a city e-bike.

The new Tern HSD (photo: Tern)

The bike runs on Bosch’s Performance Line motor, promising up to 50% more torque than its predecessor, making uphill rides effortless, even when loaded. The newly integrated Bosch Smart System turns the rider’s smartphone into a control center, offering electronic lock features, motor adjustments, location tracking, and real-time updates. With the eBike Flow app, riders can monitor fitness stats and map routes, integrating with apps like Strava and Komoot.

For security, the premium HSD S-Class versions include the Bosch ConnectModule, featuring motion detection, alarms, push alerts, and GPS tracking.

The Tern HSD positions itself as a game-changer in urban mobility. It caters to families, businesses, and individuals seeking an eco-friendly, versatile alternative for urban transportation and cargo needs.

Evelo Atlas 

The Atlas is no ordinary e-bike. It’s a marvel that holds the Guinness World Record for completing an 8,000-mile transcontinental expedition without a hitch. This feat is a testament to its powerful mid-drive motor system that ensures riders have the strength to climb any hill or tackle any terrain. Along with power, the Atlas offers buttery-smooth rides, courtesy of its integrated front suspension. Maintenance woes are a thing of the past with the Atlas, as it boasts a Gates Carbon Belt Drive that requires virtually no upkeep.

When it comes to battery life, the Atlas doesn’t skimp. Its high-end battery offers an impressive real-world range of 60 miles. However, for those who have a penchant for longer adventures, there’s an option to upgrade with the Super Range Bundle, pushing the range to a whopping 100 miles.

The Atlas is not just about performance; it’s also a visual treat. Its timeless and sleek design integrates the battery seamlessly, ensuring riders make a statement wherever they go. Its unparalleled performance ensures challenges like hills are effortlessly tackled, with the added advantage of an optional throttle-on-demand feature for greater control. The bike’s state-of-the-art components, ranging from the Maintenance-Free Gates Carbon Belt Drive and Enviolo Continuously Variable Transmission to hydraulic brakes, make it a marvel of modern tech.

To round off its impressive specifications, the Atlas offers a range of up to 100 miles, and is powered by a 600w mid-drive motor.

MK1-E Gen. 3 

Meet the MK1-E Gen. 3 Automatic cargo bike from Butchers & Bicycles where modern design seamlessly meets unparalleled performance. Crafted with the urban cyclist in mind, this bike effortlessly blends the ease of automatic shifting with the sophistication of a sleek frame, ensuring every ride is as enjoyable as it is smooth. With its Built-To-Tilt technology and a robust Bosch motor, every journey, be it a quick errand or a longer commute, becomes a delightful experience.

The powerful 500Wh battery ensures longevity, while the state-of-the-art Supernova Lights, fitted as standard, light your way during nighttime rides. Safety is paramount, and the MK1-E Gen. 3 doesn’t compromise, featuring the ABUS YourPlus Key Alike system that locks both the frame and battery securely.

Whether you choose the chic gloss white or the understated matte black, you have the option to further personalize this bike with a range of accessories. Enhancing the user experience is the Kiox display that connects to the eBike Connect smartphone app via Bluetooth, turning every ride into an interactive journey.

The thoughtful design of the MK1-E Gen. 3 includes a shorter frame, catering to riders of various heights and ensuring comfort. The wider rear cargo tire is not just an aesthetic upgrade; it promises stability, especially when carrying heavy loads.

Priced at €6,656 (excluding VAT) and accompanied by a 2-year guarantee, the MK1-E Gen. 3 Automatic is more than just a bike – it’s an experience. Dive into its features and technicalities, and you’ll see why it’s the choice for the discerning rider.

Vvolt Alpha

The Vvolt Alpha e-Bike is a seamless blend of innovation and comfort. It is all about simplicity, and is one of the few e-bikes we’ve tried that can pedal along quite nicely without any pedal assist. With a streamlined single-speed design, the Alpha E-Bike empowers you to effortlessly control your ride by adjusting the pedal-assist level instead of gears. And it works really well.

Vvolt Alpha

The Alpha E-Bike features a Gates belt drive, and a 350W motor. Hydraulic brakes have self-adjusting capabilities to deliver solid stopping power. And they are even designed with environmentally friendly mineral oil to minimise impact on the planet.

The 375 Wh removable battery provides 15-40 miles of range depending on terrain, assist level, and other factors.

The Alpha e-Bike has two sizes accommodating a range suitable of heights between 4’9″ and 6’4″.