EXHIBIT 23.1

CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

We have issued our report dated June 27, 2014, with respect to the financial statements and supplemental schedules of the Regal Beloit Corporation Retirement Saving Plan on Form 11-K for the year ended December 31, 2013. We hereby consent to the incorporation by reference of said report in the Registration Statements of Regal Beloit Corporation on Form S-8 (File Nos. 333-155298, effective November 12, 2008, 333-176283 effective August 12, 2011 and 333-193414 effective January 17, 2014).

/s/ GRANT THORNTON LLP

Chicago, Illinois

June 27, 2014