'47 bike on ebay (Dec '11)

[Mike Sal]

Since I'm new to "all things simplex", I was looking over the photos of the model on auction right now.  Is this the "direct drive" system I've seen mentioned in some of the other threads?  I'm assuming when you step on the pedal, it tightens the final drive belt, but how do they keep the primary belt correctly tensioned?
thanks,
Mike Sal

[41simplex]

In the center of the pulley clutch set up,the inside pulley flanges are connected with a sleeve that slides back and forth so when the pedal is in netural the belts are loose when u push the pedal forward it pulls the clutch  the inside pulley slide as one unit tightening both belts equally putting it in gear. Thats the way I understand it . I have't ridden my bike yet so we'll see. Thanks Rick

[Mike Sal]

So, which drive system is better?  I think I'm more interested in the later style, but I don't want my decision on a purchase to be based on cosmetics alone.  I'd like to be able to ride the bike to town once in a while, which is 12 miles away on the blacktop.
Mike sal