Okay, so I’ve been tinkering around with bikes for a while now, and I recently got my hands on this old thing that’s got a drive shaft instead of a chain. I gotta say, it’s a whole different animal.

First off, I started by just staring at it for a good while. You know, trying to figure out how this thing even works. I mean, no chain, no sprockets, just this solid shaft running from the engine to the rear wheel. It’s kinda wild when you’re used to seeing chains and gears.
Then I got down to business. I started taking things apart, just to see what’s what. I removed the rear wheel, which was surprisingly easy, and then I got a better look at the shaft itself. It’s encased in this housing, which I guess is to keep all the dirt and grime out. I also saw that I must do something to protect the shaft in the case.
I poked around some more and found out that the shaft has these gears at each end, which is how it transfers power from the engine to the wheel. And apparently, these things are supposed to be way more durable than chains. Less maintenance, too, which is a big plus in my book.
- First attempt: I tried to clean it and replace the grease by myself, but I messed up the gear alignment at the end. The wheels didn’t spin smoothly, so I had to call someone for help.
- Second try: With some tips from an old mechanic, I learned that the shaft needs to be properly lubed and sealed. He showed me how to do it right, and I followed his instruction step by step. It’s a bit tricky, but once you get the hang of it, it’s not too bad.
- Success: After reassembling everything, I took the bike out for a spin. It felt different, for sure. Smoother, somehow. And I didn’t have to worry about the chain coming loose or getting all greasy.
I found some bikes that had the shaft-driven system.
- One is called HP2 Enduro, which was made around 2005 to 2008. It’s got an engine around 1,170cc.
- Another one called K1 was produced from 1988 to 1993, with a 987cc engine.
- K1200GT, made between 2003 and 2008, has a bigger engine, about 1,157cc.
- And there’s this K1200RS, from 1997 to 2005, with a 1,171cc engine.
So yeah, that’s my little adventure with a shaft-driven motorcycle. It’s definitely an interesting piece of engineering. And who knows, maybe I’ll stick with shaft-driven bikes from now on. They’re kinda growing on me.
