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[–] Donbuster 4 points 4 points (+8|-4) ago 

Its a belt. Just like any other engine. Its not a novel idea. Therefore, if it were any good, we'd already be doing it.

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[–] Clientkill 0 points 10 points (+10|-0) ago 

We are already doing it, belt driven bikes have existed for some time.

[–] [deleted] 0 points 3 points (+3|-0) ago 

[Deleted]

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[–] Gardmeria ago 

So it has a belt instead of a chain drive?

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[–] Gardmeria 1 point -1 points (+0|-1) ago 

How are you supposed to turn right with that trailer?

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[–] twentyfive ago 

It takes 30 seconds to put dry lube on.

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[–] brownja 0 points 1 point (+1|-0) ago 

Lot's of questions and misinformation in the replies here so I'll try to address them in a single comment.

Belt drive bicycles have been around for a while, so while this is not that innovative from a technology standpoint, Ikea bringing it to a mass audience is.

Belt drive bikes can be used with internally geared hubs for multi-speed applications. http://www.gatescarbondrive.com/bikes/

Belt drives are clean, quiet, and low maintenance which makes them good for casual riders and city bikes.

The main compromises; The requirement to use the afore-mentioned internal gears, which can be a bit heavy and/or expensive.
The requirement to have a cut-out in the chain-stay or seat-stay for belt replacement.

Re: trailer and right-turns: The arm is curved out and back in to the hub to allow the wheel to swing in that direction.