Only in Italy. Why not just use a chain to transfer the rotating motion of a gear to another gear a distance away? You know, like a gearbox output shaft and rear sprocket. it's not like the idea was alien. Looks nice though. Like a watch.
I was going to say "Chain or Belts", but I knew the bike was of 1959 and I didn't fancy the idea of 1959 technology belts. Now stop trying to shamelessly plug your sideline, you thread hijacking whore!
Gear train of a 1936 Bristol Hercules 14 cylinder aero engine (not including the bevel drive to the propellor):
Dave, I’m delighted to see that the XT has found its rightful place in the world ! Whilst clearing out the garage I found some bolts which belong to the crash bars, I’ll semd them up to you when I’m back from Misano. Really pleased the bike is getting used in the correct environment PP