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Also, there's no explanation of the symmetrical aspect of the design. I'm intrigued by it, but other than vague allusions to its superiority over asymmetrical designs no analysis is given.

So, I ask HN: why aren't chain/belt bike designs symmetrical?

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Having only one chain drastically simplifies the derailer problem, I should think. Also, you spend half as much on gears and chain.

The chain goes on one side of the bike.

Sorry, my question was unclear. Why do traditional chain designs only have the chain on one side? If symmetrical designs are more efficient (as the article claims) why couldn't the same thing be accomplished with a chain/belt design?

EDIT: as to the article -- more analysis of why symmetrical designs are superior would have been nice.

The added weight from a second complete drivetrains (chains, gears, derailleur) and/or extra mechanical complexity would probably negate the efficiency gained by better transmission of force.

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