I'm looking to get a new bike which will require the smallest amount of maintenance.
The bike will have an internally-geared hub and I have the choice of single speed chain or belt drive.
I have been looking at the Gates Carbon Drive and investigating maintenance costs:
A CDX belt is around 8 times more expensive than a chain where I live.Also the chainring and rear sprocket are round 4 times more expensive.
What is the lifespan of a Gates belt against a Single Speed chain? I've looked up online but peoples opinions are conflicting. Some say in similar conditions a belt will have a similar lifespan, while others claim up to 10 times longer use.What is the actual lifespan of a belt compared to a well maintained single speed chain in similar conditions?
I understand a belt drive is not maintenance free but much less than a chain.If a belt can last 4 times longer than chain then I would consider this worth the investment.
Also is there an expected life difference between 11 speed and single speed chains? As comparison to my current bike.