Gates Sonic Tension Meter 350C
The Gates Sonic Tension Meter 350C measures the tension of your belt installation by sound: its sensor analyses the sound waves of the belt and gives a precise tension reading. Gates describes it as a factory-focused tool for measuring belt tension quickly, with repeatable accuracy.
Why choose this tool?
Measures by sound. The sensor analyses the sound waves from the belt and delivers the tension measurement.
Repeatable accuracy. Made for quick measurements with repeatable accuracy, as used by bike assemblers.
Synchronous belts. Gates lists the meter for V-belts, V-ribbed belts and synchronous belts, such as Gates Carbon Drive belts.
A reading, not a colour. Gives you a measured value instead of a go/no-go result.
How does it work?
The sensor listens to the sound of the belt and the meter shows its tension. Use it in a quiet place: noise and voices can disturb a sonic measurement.
Which tension tool is right for you?
The 350C is a sonic meter for workshops and assemblers who want measured values. For a quick go/no-go check use the Spring Tension Tester; for a free option on your phone use the Gates Carbon Drive app.
Technical data
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | Sonic belt tension meter |
| Model | 350C |
| Works with | V-belts, V-ribbed belts and synchronous belts, including Gates Carbon Drive belts |
| Measures | Belt tension by sound |
| Made for | Assemblers and workshops |
Which Gates tool for which job?
| Gates tool | Job |
|---|---|
| Spring Tension Tester | Checks belt tension |
| Sonic Tension Meter 350C (this tool) | Checks belt tension |
| Sonic Tension Meter 550C | Checks belt tension |
| Belt Tension Meter PCE-BTM 2000 | Checks belt tension |
| Rear Belt Liner | Checks alignment |
| Laser Belt Liner V3 | Checks alignment |
| Frame Alignment Kit | Checks the frame |
| SureFit Tool | Fits sprockets |
| Strap Wrench | Removes sprockets |
| Locknut Tool for S550 | Fits sprockets |
| RDM Snubber | Protects the belt |
| Snubber Screw | Protects the belt |
| Snubber Spacer Kit | Protects the belt |
| Belt Care Silicone Spray | Cares for the belt |
| Tensioner Idler Wheel | Replaces a part |
Frequently asked questions
How tight should the belt be?
Correct tension matters. Too loose and the belt can skip teeth; too tight and it loads the hub bearings. Besides the tools here, the free Gates Carbon Drive app measures tension by sound, and a Gates Krikit gauge (the “CDS Krikit” with the blue plastic) is a physical gauge for riders and shops.
Why use a sonic meter?
A sonic meter reads the tension from the sound of the belt, so you get a measured value that you can repeat. Use it in a quiet environment.
Do I need special tools for a belt drive?
A belt drive needs far less than a chain, but the right tension and alignment matter. Gates offers tools for checking tension, checking alignment, fitting sprockets and protecting the belt – see the table above, and ask us which ones suit your bike.
How do I handle a Gates belt?
Do not twist, back-bend, crimp, invert, bundle or zip-tie the belt, and never use it as a strap wrench or pry it onto the sprockets. Do not lubricate it. Damage to the carbon cords is the most common reason for a belt to fail.
About Gates Carbon Drive
Gates Corporation has been a global leader in power transmission and belt drive technology since 1911. In 2007 it launched the first belt drive system for bicycles, and today more than 1,000 bike brands worldwide use Gates Carbon Drive, from city and trekking bikes to e-bikes, cargo and mountain bikes.
On the bike
