Drive is buzzing or making noise

  • The belt can make noise when forced to run hard against the flange on the sprockets. This can be due to sprocket misalignment, wheel misalignment, or run-out in the drive caused by damaged components.
  • Inspect the drivetrain for possible sources of misalignment:
    • Seat the rear wheel fully into the drop outs
    • Align the rear wheel properly in the frame
    • Ensure the rear sprocket is properly installed on the rear hub
    • Torque the rear dropout fixing bolts to the proper specification
    • Torque the front chainring bolts (12-14Nm) and spider to the proper specification
    • Inspect the sprockets and belt for damage

Drive is squeaking or grinding

  • In dry and dusty environments, fine particulate can become trapped between the belt and sprocket. As the belt moves over the sprocket, the increased friction causes a high-pitched “squeak.” Spraying water on the belt may quiet the drive for a few minutes, but a longer-term solution is to clean the belt and sprockets with soap, water, and a soft brush. Then apply a light film of dry silicone to the belt. Gates recommends these products:
  • In some cases, a grinding noise can occur when riding in dirty conditions, particularly when grit and water temporarily stick to the belt. In most cases simply hosing off the belt and pulleys after a ride will end the noise.

Belt is jumping teeth/slipping

  • Belt skipping occurs when a heavy load is applied to an under-tensioned belt. The belt will jump, ratchet, or skip teeth on the rear sprocket. The rider will feel a sharp loss of power, accompanied by an audible “pop.”
  • Ensure that the rear wheel is properly installed and the rear dropout hardware is torqued to the proper specifications. The axle position may have shifted during riding, which can cause the belt to lose tension.
  • Increasing the belt tension should also correct this problem. For the Como SL, recommended tension is 35-50 hz (28-40 lbs, 12-18 kg).
  • Normally tooth jump does not cause significant belt damage; however, strong riders who jump teeth at very high loads might consider replacing the belt.
  • Belt slipping with proper tension could be a symptom of belt or sprocket wear and could be a sign that one or both need to be replaced.