Convert Your Surron Light Bee to Premium Belt Drive
First, the Light Bee secondary belt drive conversion kit replaces your stock drive system with a premium Gates carbon belt drive. Unlike aftermarket chain conversions that can be noisy and messy, this belt setup delivers whisper-quiet operation and zero maintenance . The Gates Moto X5 belt is the same technology trusted by major motorcycle manufacturers worldwide.
This kit includes a complete assembled swingarm with pre-installed belt, plus a full jackshaft assembly. The conversion is essentially bolt-on, requiring no specialized tools or fabrication knowledge .
What’s Included in the Complete Kit
A comprehensive belt drive conversion includes everything needed for installation:
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Complete Swingarm | Assembled with pre-installed Gates Moto X5 secondary belt |
| Rear Pulley | Gates 62T secondary pulley |
| Jackshaft Assembly | Gen 2 assembly w/ 51T primary rear pulley & 18T secondary front pulley |
| Chain Guard | Protective guard included |
| Rear Mudguard | Tire mudguard for protection |
| Installation Manual | Step-by-step instructions |
| Swingarm Nut Tool | Special slotted socket tool included |
| Installation Screws | All mounting hardware |
The complete assembled swingarm saves significant installation time. The belt comes pre-installed and properly tensioned from the factory . You simply remove your old swingarm and bolt this one in place.
Gates Moto X5 Belt Technology
The Gates carbon drive Moto X5 belt represents the pinnacle of belt drive technology :
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Belt Series | Gates Carbon Drive Moto X5 |
| Material | Carbon fiber tensile cords |
| Advantages | Clean, quiet, smooth operation |
| Maintenance | No lubrication required |
| Durability | Resists stretching and wear |
Unlike chains, the Gates belt requires no lubrication. There’s no messy grease flinging onto your bike or gear. The belt runs virtually silent, allowing you to hear the trail beneath you rather than mechanical racket .
The carbon fiber tensile cords provide exceptional strength while remaining lightweight. The belt won’t stretch like chains do, maintaining proper tension for longer periods .
Kit Components Deep Dive
62T Rear Secondary Pulley
The large 62-tooth rear pulley is optimized for torque delivery . The tooth profile matches the Gates belt precisely for perfect engagement. The anodized finish resists corrosion and looks great.
Gen 2 Jackshaft Assembly
The updated Gen 2 jackshaft features a 51T primary rear pulley and 18T secondary front pulley . This combination delivers the optimal gear ratio for the Light Bee. The jackshaft comes pre-assembled, saving installation time.
Complete Assembled Swingarm
The pre-assembled swingarm is the centerpiece of this kit . The Gates Moto X5 belt comes already installed and tensioned. The rear mudguard and chain guard are pre-attached . You simply bolt your existing wheel, brake, and motor into place .
Swingarm Nut Tool
A special slotted socket tool is included in the kit . This tool is required for removing and installing the swingarm pivot nut. Without this tool, you would need to source a specialty socket separately .
Installation Overview
The installation process is straightforward with the complete assembled swingarm :
Tools needed:
- Basic socket set
- Hex keys
- Torque wrench
- Included swingarm nut tool
Installation steps:
- Remove the rear wheel from your bike
- Disconnect the rear brake caliper
- Remove the stock swingarm using the included swingarm nut tool
- Install the new complete swingarm assembly
- Reinstall the rear wheel and brake caliper
- Install the new jackshaft assembly
- Check belt tension and alignment
- Torque all bolts to specifications
Because the swingarm comes pre-assembled, you don’t need to install the belt yourself. This significantly reduces installation complexity and ensures proper initial tension.
Belt vs. Chain: Why Choose Belt Drive?
Surron chose a belt drive for the Light Bee for good reasons :
| Feature | Belt Drive | Chain Drive |
|---|---|---|
| Noise | Virtually silent | Noticeably louder |
| Maintenance | None required | Regular cleaning/lube |
| Cleanliness | No grease or oil | Flings lubricant |
| Tension consistency | Minimal stretch | Requires adjustment |
| Smoothness | Dampens vibrations | Can be harsh |
| Shock absorption | Excellent | Poor |
| Durability (normal use) | Excellent | Good |
| Field repair | More difficult | Easier |
The belt’s advantages are most apparent for urban riders and trail enthusiasts who prioritize a quiet, clean experience. There’s no grease to stain your pants or garage floor . The belt runs almost silently, allowing you to enjoy nature sounds rather than mechanical noise .
For extreme off-road with sand, mud, and rocks, a chain can be more durable. But for most Light Bee riders, the belt’s benefits outweigh its limitations.
Jackshaft Specification Details
The secondary belt drive system uses a jackshaft to transfer power from the motor to the rear wheel .
| Component | Teeth Count |
|---|---|
| Primary rear pulley (jackshaft) | 51T |
| Secondary front pulley (jackshaft) | 18T |
| Final rear pulley (wheel) | 62T |
The jackshaft design allows for a more compact final drive arrangement. It also provides a gear reduction that helps the electric motor operate in its optimal RPM range.
Compatibility
This secondary belt drive kit is designed specifically for:
| Model | Compatibility |
|---|---|
| Surron Light Bee X | Direct fit |
| Surron Light Bee S | Direct fit |
| Surron Light Bee L1E | Direct fit |
| Segway X260 | Compatible |
The kit does NOT fit the Surron Ultra Bee or Storm Bee models.
Gates Belt vs. Aftermarket Belts
Gates is the original equipment manufacturer for Surron belts . The Gates Carbon Drive series is widely regarded as the best in the industry.
| Belt Brand | Quality Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Gates Moto X5 | OEM/premium | Factory original specification |
| Continental | Good | Aftermarket alternative |
| Bando | Good | High-performance alternative |
| Generic | Variable | Quality not guaranteed |
While cheaper aftermarket belts exist, the Gates belt offers proven reliability. For a complete conversion kit, sticking with Gates components ensures compatibility and longevity.
Maintenance-Free Operation
Once installed, the belt drive requires virtually no maintenance. Unlike a chain, you never need to:
- Apply lubricant
- Clean grease residue
- Adjust tension frequently
- Replace due to stretching
The belt should be inspected periodically for wear or damage . But for most riders, the belt will last thousands of miles without attention .
The belt’s carbon fiber tensile cords resist stretching and fatigue. This means consistent performance over the life of the belt.
Noise Reduction Benefits
The belt drive is significantly quieter than any chain conversion . Riders report that the bike sounds like a “sewing machine” rather than a traditional dirt bike.
The reduced noise has several benefits :
- Less fatigue on long rides
- Better trail awareness (hear approaching traffic)
- More enjoyable in quiet neighborhoods
- Doesn’t disturb wildlife on nature trails
For urban riders who navigate residential areas, the quiet belt is a major advantage.
Weight Comparison
The belt drive system is comparable in weight to a chain setup. The Gates belt itself is lighter than a steel chain. However, the pulleys may be slightly heavier than steel sprockets.
| Component | Relative Weight |
|---|---|
| Gates Moto X5 belt | Lighter than chain |
| Rear pulley (62T) | Slightly heavier than sprocket |
| Jackshaft assembly | Similar to chain equivalent |
Overall weight difference is negligible for most riders.
Where to Buy
The genuine Gates secondary belt drive kit is available through several retailers:
| Retailer | Kit Includes | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Urban Cycling | Complete kit with swingarm | Authorized retailer |
| Surron Canada | Complete kit | Canadian shipping |
| 96 Power Parts | Belt conversion kit | EU based |
Prices range from approximately 1,200−1,600 depending on retailer and included components. The complete assembled swingarm commands a premium over basic belt-only conversions.
Warranty and Support
Gates offers manufacturer warranty on their Carbon Drive belts . The complete kit may carry additional warranty from the retailer. Keep your purchase receipt for warranty claims.
Surron Canada notes their kit includes all necessary components and instructions . If you have questions, contact the retailer before installation.
Pros of Secondary Belt Drive Conversion
- Complete assembled swingarm saves installation time
- Gates Moto X5 belt proven reliability
- Silent operation vs. chain noise
- Zero maintenance no lubrication required
- Clean no grease fling
- Smooth power delivery belt dampens vibrations
- Includes special tools swingarm nut socket provided
- Complete kit everything needed in one box
- Pre-installed belt properly tensioned from factory
Cons
- Premium price ~$1,200-1,600
- Not for extreme off-road chains are more durable in mud/sand
- Harder field repair than chain (can’t easily splice)
- Requires more disassembly than belt-only replacement
- Heavier than chain slight weight penalty
- Limited gearing options pulleys fixed vs. interchangeable sprockets
Who Needs This Kit?
The secondary belt drive conversion kit is perfect for:
- Stock Light Bee owners wanting the ultimate belt experience
- Riders tired of chain maintenance seeking zero-maintenance solution
- Urban commuters prioritizing quiet operation
- Trail riders who value smooth, clean power delivery
- Those with damaged swingarms needing replacement anyway
It may NOT be ideal for:
- Extreme off-road riders in sand or mud (chain more durable)
- Budget-conscious buyers (the kit is premium priced)
- Racers needing quick gearing changes (pulleys fixed)
Why Choose the Secondary Belt Drive Kit?
In conclusion, the Light Bee secondary belt drive conversion kit is the ultimate refinement for your Surron Light Bee. The Gates Moto X5 belt delivers silent, smooth, maintenance-free operation that chains simply cannot match.
The complete assembled swingarm makes installation straightforward. The included special tools ensure you have everything needed. The pre-installed belt guarantees proper tension and alignment.
For riders who value a clean, quiet, reliable ride over ultimate off-road durability, this belt drive conversion is the best upgrade available . No more chain grease on your pants or garage floor. No more noise annoying your neighbors. Just smooth, silent electric power.
The premium price reflects the quality of the Gates components and the convenience of the pre-assembled swingarm. For many Light Bee owners, this is the definitive drivetrain upgrade.
For more Surron drivetrain options, browse our Collection of Surron Drive Systems or read our E-Moto Maintenance Guide.
