Gates Signals Frame-Mounted CVT for Non-Electric Bikes in Patent
Gates published a patent for a frame-mounted mechanical CVT for bicycles (not e-bikes) that uses two tapered-pulley pairs and a belt, with a small motor adjusting pulley spacing to vary gear ratios. The design includes an overdrive stage to raise crank RPM (intended to improve CVT reliability and longevity), followed by the CVT and a planetary gearset to drive the rear wheel, aiming to improve weight distribution for MTB handling. While it suggests a full Gates drivetrain, the overall crank-to-wheel efficiency is uncertain and likely less than a derailleur, and Gates has not announced production plans.
