Mini bike belt clutch

[inventor88]

Hey guys,
I'm starting a ambitious new project that I've never done before, a mini bike! I have most of the materials, tires, and a 5 hp Briggs, and I am mechanically inclined so it shouldn't be too difficult. My main concern is the clutch. I would like to use a belt (pulleys and tensioner) clutch and a jackshaft but I was wondering if the belt drive will hinder the performance compared to a centrifugal clutch? Would it burn belts to death if I try a wheelie or drive through difficult terrain? The concept works out in my head but I'm not sure if it will work in practice! Any advice is welcome.

Thanks!

 

[Tpdingo]

If you are going belt drive, why not just use a belt drive centrifugal clutch?

The tensioner system is really a quite poor type of clutch.

Belt vs Chain...it should be too big of a difference. Make sure it is gear right to not burnout your clutch and it should be fine. I'd go with chain but whatever suits you.

 

[itsid]

belt clutch is BS!

if you have to (say you NEED the belt slip or you run it horizontally) then sure..
belt is the way to go, but a mini bike with a horizontal crank... nope.. chain!

A TC uses a belt because it HAS to (variable diameter pulleys and such) but they do compensate for the terrible power transfer ratio with added torque where needed..
So that's the only excuse to use a belt really.

power transfer ratio on a belt drive is always less than 80%...
Losing 20% of power for no reason is ... well... unreasonable

'sid