Ultimate C380+ Belt Tension And Tire Wear

Jim1348

Active Member
I bought a pair of Ultimate C380+ for my wife and I this past spring.

I only have about 1200 miles on mine, so far.

Typically, when should I think about replacing the OEM tires?

I Googled this and the answers seem to be all over the place.

We typically ride on pavement.

Also, should I consider the very same tire or should I look at a different tire for riding on pavement.


The other questions is about belt tension.

What I read on-line suggests returning it to the dealer.

Is it that difficult.

I know my belt is loose now, but how loose is too loose?


 
This explains the tires. I have 4000 miles on my tires. No blue showing through yet. I ride on paved and unpaved roads.
 
It's not difficult to adjust your belt tension. According to Gates your tension should be between 35 and 50 lbs. The heavier you are the more tension needed. I am 200lb. and run my C380 at 48 to 49lb.
There are good videos on you tube on how to adjust your belt and Gates makes a free phone app. that uses the sound of the belt when plucked to compute tension. There is also a tool that is simple to use called a Krikit belt tension gauge.
 
I cant say how long the back lasted I trashed it when my back wheel locked because of a strap. I got to the blue in a long 30mph skid. but the front I got 8000 miles on. testing them on our tandem now.
 
Back