BMW Motorcycle Drive Shafts

All About Driveshafts for BMW Motorcycles

While most people tend to think of the engines in their BMW motorcycles as the catalysts that propel their bikes down the road, it's actually drivetrains (or final drives) that are responsible for taking that engine power and putting it to work. In the two-wheeler world, there are three types of drivetrains: chain drive, belt drive, and shaft drive. When it comes to BMW bikes, though, most models feature a shaft drive -- and for good reason.

What a Driveshaft Does for a BMW Motorbike

Like cars do, motorcycles feature a final drive on the output shaft of the transmission that sends power to the rear wheel. A driveshaft requires less maintenance than chain drives or belt drives need, and offers significantly greater longevity. Those are two reasons BMW has chosen to employ shaft drives on most models -- and has been doing so since 1923.

The driveshaft connects to the engine by gearing joints that turn the power at a 90-degree angle from the shaft to the rear wheel. The result is a smoother ride, in addition to a longer-lasting final drive. Plus, shaft drives are cleaner than chain drives, since you needn't worry about excess lubricant and grease spilling into other parts, your tires, or the road surface.

Signs of a Faulty Driveshaft

While shaft drives are the most durable option, they can eventually go bad. Symptoms of trouble include:

• Loud or unusual noises
• Your bike shuddering when you accelerate
• Even the smoothest road surface feeling rough under your tires

See any, and you'll need to inspect and, if needed, replace the driveshaft. It can be a complicated job, so if you need help with it, feel free to schedule a service appointment at a dealership.

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