How to Adjust a Bike Clutch

Performing routine maintenance on your motorcycle will keep it running smoothly and efficiently, and allow you more time to enjoy the ride. Adjusting your motorcycle clutch is a part of that routine maintenance. You'll know you need to adjust your clutch when you feel it slipping, or when you rev up the motor but the bike doesn't speed up.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Screwdrivers
• O-ring or flat gasket
• 11/6 inch wrench
• Long ball Allen wrench

1. Locate the grommets at the end of the clutch cables on your motorcycle. Remove those and set them aside.

2. Turn the cables inward to release the tension. This is known as de-adjusting the cables.

3. Remove the derby cover to expose your motorcycle's clutch patch. Look for the O-ring or flat gasket that's between the cover and the primary pack. This should be replaced each time you adjust your clutch or perform maintenance on your clutch patch.

4. Undo the lock nut using an 11/6-inch wrench.

5. Use a long ball Allen wrench to back out the adjusting screw of your motorcycle clutch until it's extremely loose. Once it's loose, begin to tighten it but stop as soon as you feel any resistance. Give it a half-turn in the opposite direction and hold it tight.

6. Replace the locking nut and tighten it in place using the 11/6-inch wrench. Make it as tight as you can.

7. Put in the new O-ring or flat gasket and replace your derby cover. Put the cables back in place.