It's like getting turned on by a great looking chic in a black dress. She looks great when she's out on the town, and she's an awesome ride ... but no matter what you do, she doesn't look good naked.
Great bike though man!
I may be a bit late to the show on this thread .... But have you tried looking into the belt drives used by Yamaha (Star motorcycles)? I believe they use a belt drive on the Raider and the Warrior. It might open some options for you on belt and/or sprocket selection, and a tension system.