11-08-2023, 02:22 AM
Yeah I can't recall the last 180 degree parallel twin? Was the old NC700 a 180?
I've been a fan of shaft drive motorcycles since my first one in 1973, but only for longitudinal engines like BMW R bikes, Guzzi twins, CX500/650, etc. since the engine is already turning the same direction as the shaft. Never much cared for the idea of using a shaft on a transverse engine which then requires a bevel set to turn power 90*.
OTOH chains have become ridiculously easy to maintain and can last as long as BMW's driveshafts! LOL. Well maybe I'm exaggerating, but still I remember when lubing after every ride and adjusting after every other ride or so was the norm. Now just give it a wipe and lube every 500 miles or so and forget about adjusting, just do so when changing the rear tire. I've not replaced a chain since 2009 when I replaced the original crappy one on my 2005 DR650.
A friend just replaced the original chain and sprockets on his KTM 1190 at 42,000 miles because he detected a slight vibration or surge at very low speed, plus he felt it was time. He said the sprockets and chain looked fine but the slight surge is now gone.
In all honesty of all the bikes I've owned the drive system that was probably the best; quiet, no cleaning or lube, almost never adjust, good for 90,000+ miles, were the belt drive Harleys.
I've been a fan of shaft drive motorcycles since my first one in 1973, but only for longitudinal engines like BMW R bikes, Guzzi twins, CX500/650, etc. since the engine is already turning the same direction as the shaft. Never much cared for the idea of using a shaft on a transverse engine which then requires a bevel set to turn power 90*.
OTOH chains have become ridiculously easy to maintain and can last as long as BMW's driveshafts! LOL. Well maybe I'm exaggerating, but still I remember when lubing after every ride and adjusting after every other ride or so was the norm. Now just give it a wipe and lube every 500 miles or so and forget about adjusting, just do so when changing the rear tire. I've not replaced a chain since 2009 when I replaced the original crappy one on my 2005 DR650.
A friend just replaced the original chain and sprockets on his KTM 1190 at 42,000 miles because he detected a slight vibration or surge at very low speed, plus he felt it was time. He said the sprockets and chain looked fine but the slight surge is now gone.
In all honesty of all the bikes I've owned the drive system that was probably the best; quiet, no cleaning or lube, almost never adjust, good for 90,000+ miles, were the belt drive Harleys.