KTM Chain Adjustment - Cycle News

KTM Chain Adjustment

Proper KTM chain adjustment is important if you want your KTM chain, sprockets and more to work properly and last as long as possible.

Not running the proper chain tension can create havoc for your sprockets, chain and even counter shaft seal bearings. An improperly adjusted chain can even cause your sprocket bolts to come loose.

To do KTM Chain Adjustment properly, start with the bike on a center stand with the wheels off the ground. On the inside of the airbox cover, KTM provides a diagram that shows the range in which your chain slack should fall. Typically it is between 55-58mm mm.

You can measure your KTM chain slack with a tape measure or calipers. Measure right behind the chain slider from the swing arm to the chain, with the chain pulled up tight.

If your chain is out of the recommended adjustment range, it’s time to tighten or loosen

KTM Chain Adjustment Steps
First, loosen the axle nut enough to allow the wheel to move. Then, with a 13mm wrench, loosen the lock nut on the axle block adjuster bolt. Use a 10mm wrench to turn the bolt clockwise for more chain slack or counter clockwise for less chain tension. Adjust each side equally and match the markings on the axle blocks to both sides.

When your chain is within the manufacturer’s recommendations, use a shop rag to wedge between the sprocket and the chain. Roll the wheel back until the chain is tight and the wheel is pulled up to the axle block adjuster bolts.

Now, tighten the axle down to proper torque specs. For most KTM’s this is 80 Nm or 59 ft.lbs.

Roll the wheel forward and remove the rag from the sprocket and chain. Lock down the nut on the axle block adjuster bolt using your 13mm wrench while holding the axle block-adjusting bolt with a 10mm wrench.

Ensure the chain is aligned by quickly double-checking where the marks on the axle blocks line up with the swingarm.

That’s it. KTM Chain Adjustment is done. You’re ready to ride!