Do you think we’ll ever see the demise of the bicycle chain? Well, belt drivetrains have been around for a few years now as mostly a novelty. For 2010, Norco is trying to bring it mainstream… well… sorta.
By sorta, I mean it’s a singlespeed, it’s a 29er, it’s Reynolds steel and it’s also a Norco, so not really mainstream in the States, but for a manufacturer as large as Norco to introduce their dealers and aficionados to the Gates Belt Drive, this is a big deal. While singlespeeds are appealing and fun, I’ve yet to spend much time on one, but this just might be my chance.
The thought of a simple drivetrain without shifters, chain grease and gear mashing sounds great until the trails get really steep at which point images of the pain cave come to mind. But, I’ll let you be the judge. Is the Norco Judan 29er belt-driven singlespeed hype-worthy?
More Info: Visit Norco.com
Growing up in Seattle, Jason quickly developed a love for the outdoors and a thing for mountains. That infatuation continued as he founded 
No.
Mark… thanks for your poetic response. Maybe at least a haiku next time, please.
I read Fatty’s assessment of the belt drive (here) and having not ridden one, his sentiments seem logical. Chains are troublesome, but they work. It’s a forgettable component until you snap one (which hasn’t happened to me in a long time… knocking on wood). As far as SS applications, the specialized frame design really limits compatibility, but it’s pretty fun to think about though. I’d still like to get onboard and give one a whirl. We’ll see.
Love single speed pain cave
It will be your f(r)iend forever
Ride one or ride none
As to the belt, meh. My chains work and even break, but I fix ‘em (though, has not happened with single speed, come to think of it.). Still, cool idea but sounds too complex for now.
As to Fatty. He is da man!