Hi Motorboys, I have stayed out of this discussion till now, but, maybe my experiences will help you understand these gearboxes, and their inherent problems. I had an early Hoot, it lasted me about 50 miles, it was very fun, and well liked by my friends, family and customers, minus these problems.
#1 Howling, screeching, screaming, what ever you would like to call it, unacceptable gearbox noise
#2 Lubrication problems,
#3 No hard facts (like Engineering Data, or MSDS) therefore no way to determine how to lube the box.
#4 Clutch slipping, and or chattering;
Well I tried Hypoid (90-140 transmission grease) stinks, messy, and boiled up out of the vented bolt on top rear of gear box.
Then I went to Chassis grease, clutch chattered.
Next step was a cream-colored Wheel Bearing grease, still clutch chattered,
Most acceptable lube was the White Wheel Bearing grease mixed with 50wt Racing oil, to a thick slurry.
#5 At a show, bike shuddered, and stopped pulling forward, after it sat about a year (busy with other projects) I took it apart.
#6 Clutch hub had cut itself into two pieces. This was the final straw, the Camel's back was broken! I removed all the greasy parts, and the experience actually caused the creation of a brand-new company, which would not be plagued with this type of problem.
#7 The pipe is a modified 2-stroke pipe, not actually a good match for the engine.
#8 Some of the MotorMounts are horribly made, some of the ugliest welding, and poorest fit, and finish of anything I have ever seen.
The little engine is a wonderful piece of equipment, the carb is nice and works well. Throttle, tank and other parts are average for motor bicycle use.
The chain drive boxes have been discussed here by others who have had personal experience with them, I have seen the posts, but have had no contact with them. They are not a good plan, apparently, search New Hoot Box or something to see the posts.
I hope this helps,
Mike