DIY Chain Adjustment | 2020 Ducati Streetfighter V4 S or Panigale V4 S

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will guide you through the process of adjusting the chain on your 2020 Ducati Streetfighter V4 S or Panigale V4 S. Proper chain adjustment is vital for optimal bike performance and longevity. This straightforward maintenance task requires only a few tools and can easily be done in your garage.

Step 1: Gather Your Tools

Before you start, ensure you have the following tools ready:

• 8MM hex socket
• Torque wrench
• Chain adjustment tool (recommended: Corse Dynamics Non-Slip Eccentric Chain Tool)
• Chain cleaner and lubricant (recommended products: Motool chain clean and Motool road chain loop)

Step 2: Check Chain Slack

1. Place the bike on a center stand to relieve weight from the rear.
2. Measure the chain slack from the swingarm. Ducati recommends a chain travel of about 1 inch.
3. If the current slack is more than 1 inch, proceed to adjust it.

Step 3: Loosen the Pinch Bolts

1. Locate the two 8MM pinch bolts on the rear axle.
2. Use the hex socket to loosen, but do not remove them completely. Just ensure they are loose enough for adjustment.

Step 4: Adjust the Chain Tension

1. Use the chain adjustment tool to tighten or loosen the chain:
   • Pull the tool towards you to tighten the chain.
   • Push the tool away from you to loosen the chain.
2. Make small adjustments and recheck the slack until you achieve approximately 1 inch of slack.

Step 5: Re-Tighten the Pinch Bolts

1. Once you have the desired chain slack, snug the pinch bolts back down.
2. Do not fully torque them yet; just ensure they are tight enough to hold the adjustment.

Step 6: Final Measurements

1. Remove the bike from the center stand.
2. Check the slack again with the bike under weight.
3. Adjust if necessary, keeping the slack around 1 inch.

Step 7: Torque the Pinch Bolts

1. Set your torque wrench to 35 Newton meters (or 25 pound-feet).
2. Torque each pinch bolt until you hear a click to ensure they are securely tightened.

Step 8: Clean and Lubricate the Chain

1. Put the bike back on the center stand.
2. Shift the bike into neutral.
3. Spray the chain cleaner around the chain while rotating the wheel to clean it thoroughly.
4. Use a three-sided brush to scrub the chain, ensuring all debris is removed.
5. Dry the chain with a clean rag.
6. Apply the chain lubricant by spraying it around the chain while rotating it for about two full revolutions.
7. Wipe excess lubricant off the wheel with a clean, lightly sprayed rag.

Conclusion

You have successfully adjusted and lubricated your Ducati's chain. Regular maintenance like this not only improves performance but also extends the life of your motorcycle. Keep your tools handy and make a habit of checking your chain tension regularly. Happy riding!