Your bike has a bolt at the seat stay (seen in the picture, it's above the drive side dropout) to split the frame to remove the belt. It's actually easier than removing a linked chain.

This is a driveline belt for a bike. It's not an automotive belt, it is a belt specifically made for a bicycle. There are differences in the quality of the belts you can buy, but there are standards as to the length, and the profile of the teeth.

Count the teeth on the belt to determine the length of bicycle drivetrain belt that you need.

I've had it off a few times..the hardest part is the cable that connects to the 8 speed hub. There is a drop-in for the nut that is on the end of cable that is difficult to get seated and then the cable always needs to be re-adjusted. Do-able, but not fun.

I did re-order the same belt from Vilano. I'll prob just stick with them for replacement.
I first thought I could just pick one up from my local auto parts. I see what you mean.

I personally would try Bohnings adhesive for fletching( putting feathers onto arrow shafts),rather than gorilla glue, to attempt to reinstate the missing teeth. There is a lot of torque applied to each tooth though when it's engaged with the sprocket.

Hmm, do they make a flexible JB Weld? :D

J/K, yeah, absolutely no to gluing the teeth back on. I was kidding.

If a few more teeth break off....the bike will set until the new belt arrives.
I still have my other road bike...if I want to bring that inside for the rollers.
As far as outside riding..there is a good foot of snow now...we had better weather for biking in Jan.

Surprisingly, the new belt arrived today!
The original says 'Gates' on it. This one feels/looks the same but says 'CDRIVE'
I'll prob order another one for a spare. It does look like it's unique to bikes only.


http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1581795592.jpg

^^^ Is that an Alfine 8 speed hub?

edit: I just looked closer and don't see a shifter cable.

They're quiet riding. Do you like it?

You can try an Industrial supplier not automotive, 8M1248 timing belt.

^^^I did..online. The few that showed pics looked wrong. I don't want to order one that won't fit.
I'll stay with Vilano for replacements...if this one works ok.
Three years use...is ok by me.
Thanks!

Looks like they have switched to Taiwanese-made timing belts:

Taiwan Synchronous Belt company

Might be able to source them direct (sales@twbelt.com) or through a distributor for cheaper.

Should be 156 tooth, going by their chart. Just need to know the belt-width, as you already have the pitch and length (8M-1248).