Transmission & Drivetrain
About Transmission & Drivetrain
The drivetrain carries engine power to the rear wheel through the clutch, the gearbox, the primary drive and the final drive. Riders shop here when the clutch slips or drags, the chain and sprockets wear out, a gear will not stay engaged, oil leaks from a cover or shaft, or they want to change the gearing or fit a stronger clutch.
The sub-categories follow the path of the power. Clutch Parts & Kits has the plates, springs, baskets, cables and complete clutch kits. Final & Primary Drive Parts & Kits has the chains, belts and sprockets that carry power onward, and it is the largest group here. Gearbox & Transmission Parts and Gearboxes & Transmissions have the gears and complete units. Bearings and Gaskets & Seals are the parts to renew whenever a case or cover is opened, and Other Transmission & Drivetrain Parts holds the rest.
Drivetrain parts are specific to the machine and model year, so pick your motorcycle in the Ride Finder at the top of the page. Wear parts such as clutch plates, chains and sprockets are normally replaced as sets rather than one piece at a time. If you are ordering for the final drive, the motorcycle chain size chart explains how chain sizes work.
Brands in this section include Athena, Andrews, Barnett, Arlen Ness and Acerbis. For other parts of the machine, go up to Motorcycle.
FAQs on motorcycle transmission and drivetrain parts
Which drivetrain parts are normal wear items?
Clutch friction plates, clutch springs and cables, drive chains or belts, and sprockets wear with use and are replaced as part of regular maintenance. Gearbox gears, shafts and bearings are built to last much longer and usually need attention only after damage, noise or a rebuild.
What are the signs of a slipping clutch?
Engine speed rises without the bike accelerating to match, most noticeably under load or in a higher gear, and you may smell burnt friction material. Worn plates, weak springs, oil contamination or a cable with no free play can all cause it, so inspect before buying parts.
How is primary drive different from final drive?
Primary drive connects the engine to the clutch and gearbox, through gears, a chain or a belt. Final drive carries power from the gearbox to the rear wheel, usually by a chain or belt, and on some bikes a driveshaft. They are separate systems with separate wear points.
Do I need new gaskets or seals when I open the clutch or primary cover?
Usually, yes. Gaskets and seals take the shape of the joint and rarely seal as well a second time, and a small leak can foul clutch plates. Fit a new gasket, refill with the oil your manual specifies and check for leaks after the first ride.
Can I use a drivetrain part from a different model year?
Only when the listing says it fits. Gear counts, shaft splines and mounting points change between years and models, even when parts look alike. Pick your machine in the Ride Finder and check the part number against your manual.
