A synchronous drive sprocket includes a generally annular body and a central axis extending through the generally annular body. The central axis defines circumferential, axial, and radial directions. The generally annular body has a peripheral edge and a plurality of recesses extending radially inward from the peripheral edge. The plurality of recesses define a plurality of circumferentially spaced teeth configured to receive mating teeth of a synchronous drive belt. Each tooth has an upper bearing surface and a notch extending radially inward from the peripheral edge of the tooth. Each notch is axially positioned such that the plurality of notches align with each other to collectively define a groove within the plurality of teeth. The groove extends circumferentially around at least a majority of the generally annular body and having a substantially continuous profile.