I have to replace the final drive belt on my 1999 Ultra Classic. I will do it myself. Question is has any one used an aftermarket belt such as Gates. Harley has to have theirs made some where. Probably Gates would be my gusess. Gates have one that will fit and it's considerably cheaper then one from the Harley store. Jireh Cycles carry them. They also have a brand called Python for the same price. What do you guys recommend and what has been your experience in this area?

Thanks

 

I dunno If I'd wanna risk it. Thats a lot of work if it don't hold up for a few bucks Just my .02

 

Broken? Can't answer your question but have one of my own: you do realize that belt replacement requires removal of the pivot shaft and needs special tools & procedure to realign right?

 

If and when I have to replace mine, I plan to put on a HD sidecar belt. It is stronger than the original belt. Sure, it costs a few more bucks, but might be worth it for the peace of mind of having the strongest belt I could get.

 

If tou buy a Harley belt check the package date on the box. The new belts are woven like the 07-up and are mcuh stronger than the original. I can say every Panther belt we have installed has been replaced again already. Stick with the Harley belt. Gates makes it but cannot resale their own with the same technique. MOCO owns that. Make sure the package date is 07 or newer.

 

I got 80k plus on the old style HD belt so why try anything else. If you look at the cost over the years it is probable the best cost per mile part on the bike.