Gates, maker of advanced belt drive technologies, will highlight the advantages of carbon fiber belts for the growing electric two-wheeler market at the most influential motorcycle trade show, the International Motorcycle and Accessories Exhibition (EICMA), Nov. 5-10, in Milan, Italy.
Electric two-wheeler technology is rapidly evolving and gaining market share worldwide. One in three motorized two-wheelers sold in 2019 will be electric, according to a Gates analysis of industry data. Gates, which introduced carbon fiber tensile cords to the motorcycle market in 2003, sees an opportunity to help accelerate the transition to eMobility.
“We feel our belt drive systems are ideal for both consumers and manufacturers across many performance metrics including noise, total cost of ownership, durability, and maintenance,” said Joe Menzel, general manager of Gates Global Mobility Business.
Gates will present its new product family of eMobility sprockets at EICMA, where it is appearing for the first time. Gates is known as a belt manufacturer, but it has developed an expertise in sprocket design and manufacturing to support the use of its belts within the two-wheeler market. Using sprockets designed by Gates ensures optimal drivetrain performance—and provides manufacturers of electric motorcycles and eScooters with a turnkey, integrated drivetrain solution. Samples designed for a variety of eMobility applications will be on display at EICMA.
One day prior to EICMA, Gates executives will attend the Ricardo Motorcycle Conference on Nov. 4, to deliver the presentation “Technical Comparison of Drive Innovations for Electric and ICE Two-Wheelers.” The presentation will explore the trends and technologies influencing the two-wheeled EV market—and show how belts offer optimal performance versus chains as motor power increases and scooters transition away from hub motors to higher-torque, higher-efficiency mid-drive motors to improve range.
“Due to the quietness of electric motors, chain noise is becoming more noticeable—leading to an increase in the use of quieter belts made from advanced polymers,” Menzel said.
Gates engineers will also preview developments in the materials science of its belt drive systems, including details on the advantages of carbon tensile cords versus aramid, and the integration of Gates sprocket designs developed for the bicycle and eBike market into motorcycle and scooter applications.
The Gates booth at EICMA will showcase some of the most cutting-edge and technologically advanced belt-driven two-wheelers, including a Cake Kalk, a Zero SR/F electric motorcycle, and a full-suspension Nicolai G1 EBoxx E14 electric mountain bike in Hall 18, booth C77.
Link: Gates
