Hi all,
Here is my take on this. I only have 820 miles on my GEBE R/S35 Belt drive though I did have a whizzer in 1949. First, because I read this web site and checked many bikes before I bought anything, I ended up with an easy, quick install. So far absolutely no problems. There is no sign of wear at all. I ordered the solid axle and am still using the original belt, nobby tires and original wheels. I expect this system will go a very many more miles and this is the reason. I change oil often, I keep things tight, I pedal to 5/10 mph, then advance the throttle easy. I pedal on hills that I could go up without pedaling. I weigh 200 lbs and have a heavy bike (Schwinn Aerostar). You must realize that no matter what you do to your bike that you are still riding a BIKE. The engine is only to assist YOU. I will not ride faster than road conditions allow and obey all traffic laws. If you ride with respect toward others you will ride and live longer. You ask which kit is better. They are all good if you pay attention to the installation, treat the bike and engine good and use common sense while riding. Do that and you will no doubt have many enjoyable hours and miles ahead of you. You will see on this site many people that want to push everything to the limit. They are having fun, love to work on their bikes and know they will wear them out quicker and replace parts more often than a cream puff like me. I'll be 72 next month. Can you guess why I'm still riding and enjoying myself on the streets and back roads? That said, I may get a larger engine! Why? For more power on the mountains when I want to carry a heavier load. NOT for speed! I will still pedal to start out and will pedal as much as my tired old bones will allow on the hills. If you want to ride off of ski jumps and do double flips over a row of cars with a 200cc engine disguised as a milk crate, thats great! Enjoy yourself to the utmost! If you want to enjoy the scenery, old age and keep your bike awhile, then do it my way. Treat your wife, girlfriends and bikes (not necessarily in that order) with respect and see if it won't pay off! KenSpice