Why are most racing atvs chain driven?

Question

most of the sports atvs i have seen are chain driven, (200cc and up) and so far it looks like the only ones with shafts are lower than 200 cc. what is the difference?

Answer 1

the chain drive is more efficient and you can more easily alter gear ratios for different tracks....

Answer 2

They try to make it like a motocross bike because the engines are tuned the same and also much faster gear changing.

Answer 3

Yeah all racing ATV's and motorcycles will have chains just like sports bikes have chains. They hold up to far more abuse than a shaft drive, are way cheaper to replace than a shaft drive and allow you to re-gear your ATV/bike in a matter of minutes for different tracks and conditions. .