What Belt is Best??

Kman · February 5th, 2010, 09:26 PM

I'm getting close to the magic 100hr belt light and I thought I might as well change the belt. I plow on top of trail/mud/sand riding so I don't think this is a bad idea.

I picked up a Goodyear belt from the local Crappy Tire, anybody used one of these before? Will this thing work or should I go back to an OEM belt. I don't have crazy tires, just 25" Bear Claws (12.5" rears).

Thanks

NMKAWIERIDER · February 5th, 2010, 10:19 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kman

I'm getting close to the magic 100hr belt light and I thought I might as well change the belt. I plow on top of trail/mud/sand riding so I don't think this is a bad idea.

I picked up a Goodyear belt from the local Crappy Tire, anybody used one of these before? Will this thing work or should I go back to an OEM belt. I don't have crazy tires, just 25" Bear Claws (12.5" rears).

Thanks

Goodyear makes a decent general use belt. Brutes can end there existance pretty fast if put in a pinch so if you use it..don't expect too much. Me, if I were going to all the trouble of replacing a belt and setting deflection, I sure would want something I won't worry about for a while. The OEM is the best value and built for the tork the Brute puts out. I trust it and and EPI.

Adirondack Man · February 5th, 2010, 11:54 PM

OEM all the way. Also, just because you are approaching 100 hours does not mean that the belt needs replaced. IF you keep the belt properly adjusted it can easily last 1500 miles, or more. Also, when running under 15 mph, like in deep mud/ tough technical trails, etc., run her in low range. You will get better belt life that way.

Kman · February 6th, 2010, 11:17 AM

Thanks guys, I will get myself an OEM belt. I have heard that belts can go for a long time, I just really, really hate being the guy getting towed, especially by a "friend" on another brand of machine. I'm sure we have all been there and heard about it though...

Adirondack Man · February 6th, 2010, 11:44 AM

Kman,

If you do change out your belt, and the old one is still in decent shape, keep it with you on the quad. When trail riding, I carry a small tool set, and an older "good" spare belt, just in case I blow a belt on the trail and need something to get me home. Knock on wood.... I have never needed it, but better safe than sorry.

Kman · February 6th, 2010, 04:23 PM

So I called a couple of local dealers, the Kawi belt is $112 vs the $50 for the Goodyear belt. I guess this is one of those times you get what you pay for.

NMKAWIERIDER · February 6th, 2010, 05:41 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kman

So I called a couple of local dealers, the Kawi belt is $112 vs the $50 for the Goodyear belt. I guess this is one of those times you get what you pay for.

Babbittsonline.com or cheapcycleparts.com OEMS are about 79. Now...the EPI is about 120...

Kman · February 6th, 2010, 07:51 PM

I forgot to say that those are canadian dollars. I hate to sound so cheap, but it's hard to open my wallet when I could get 2 belts for the price of one. But...I really hate being towed...

NMKAWIERIDER · February 6th, 2010, 09:22 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kman

But...I really hate being towed...

Then.... you just answered your own question. By two goodyears and take the extra with you and all the tools it takes to do a belt replacement in the field....or buy one OEM. enjoy the ride and be the one towing your buddies home.

Kman · February 6th, 2010, 09:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by NMKAWIERIDER

Then.... you just answered your own question. By two goodyears and take the extra with you and all the tools it takes to do a belt replacement in the field....or buy one OEM. enjoy the ride and be the one towing your buddies home.

LOL, exactly