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[arrigo]

Is it patented or is it something no one would buy. I don't get it....

[larry]

Is it patented or is it something no one would buy. I don't get it....

They're not. BMW uses it on some of its bikes and there are some Japanese cruisers with belt drive. Buell bikes were ALL belt-drive--BEFORE Harley-Davidson bought them out (or shut them down).
I own 4 belt-drive bikes, plus one with a shaft and one with a chain. Belt drive is lightweight, clean, quiet and maintenance-free. Unlike many shaft-drive arrangements, it doesn't affect handling. There are only two disadvantages: There are no alternate pulleys available for gearing changes; and they aren't pretty to look at (the pulleys are of larger diameter than those use for chains, and they need large guards to protect them from stones).

[vanaken25]

Far from the only, as you can see from all those listed above.
AND if your import didn't come with one you can change it http://www.scootworks.com/scootworks/beltdrives.htm

Many people seem to like them.
Minimal maintenance, set and forget until tire change.
Perhaps that's why HD offers ONLY belt drive.

[adare]

Far from the only, as you can see from all those listed above.
AND if your import didn't come with one you can change it http://www.scootworks.com/scootworks/beltdrives.htm

Many people seem to like them.
Minimal maintenance, set and forget until tire change.
Perhaps that's why HD offers ONLY belt drive.

"Why is Harley Davidson the only manufacturer (that I know of) who offers belt drive?"

What, apart from Victory, Kawasaki, Yamaha, Buell, Neander, Hyosung, Indian, Ridley, Suzuki, Big Bear and BMW, you mean?

[reuben29]

KAWASAKI

[danil70]

Suzuki has had a belt on the LS650 since 1986, still being made.

[mate]

There are several.

[varik]

There are several.

They are the only manufacturer gay enough to such an ugly girly thing on their bikes. Face it, most guys who buy harleys aren't capable enough to keep a chain oiled.