To work with the SDTS, Sussex has developed a wide range of frames made specifically for the SDTS, including 700C city/hybrid frames, 700C road bike frames, 26" mountain and comfort frames, 20" folding bike frames, and 20" BMX-style kids frames. Sussex has also developed specialized components to integrate the shaft drive with Shimano's advanced 7-speed and 8-speed internally geared hubs. Our unique design minimizes weight and increases efficiency and performance far beyond any other shaft drive on the market. By combining our SDTS with the Shimano hubs, our bikes deliver a uniquely smooth ride, high performance and low maintenance. We have also developed high quality crank arms made specifically for our shaft drive in multiple lengths and color finishes.

The SDTS is available in multiple gear ratios and multiple lengths to accomodate different bikes and intended uses.

SDTS Gear Ratios:

• 1.53 - for steep mountain climbing
• 2.07 - for most versatile mix of gearing of moderate terrain
• New gear ratios in development!

• 440mm - for adult 700C city, hybrid, cross and 26" urban mountain style bikes
• 390mm - for 20" wheel folding bikes and kids bikes
• SDTS can be made to order from 370mm - 460mm

The SDTS uses two sets of spiral bevel gears and a shaft rod to smoothly transfer power from the cranks to rear wheel. The bevel gears are made of heat treated cromoly and paired with high quality sealed cartridge bearings coupled to a steel shaft rod – all sealed inside lightweight, durable aluminum alloy. Our shaft drive has been in production since 1991, and is already on tens of thousands of bikes all over the world. To see the shaft drive in motion, click here to view the Shaft Drive Animation.

For more details on how the shaft drive works with internal gear hubs, click Here.

The Sussex SDTS is packaged in cartons of eight. Typicaly delivery time is 30-60 days depending on quantity. The SDTS can be ordered by itself in quantities of 500 or more using a Sussex designed or certified frame, or we can assemble the shaft drive into a wide variety of Bicycle.