Always use BELT TENSION GAUGE (Part Number:HD-35381-A) to measure belt deflection. Do not rely on "feel" as this can result in belts that are under tensioned. Loose belts will fail due to "ratcheting" (jumping a tooth).
Check deflection:
At every scheduled service interval.
With transmission in neutral.
At loosest spot in belt.
With motorcycle at room temperature.
With motorcycle upright and rear wheel off the ground or on jiffy stand without rider or luggage.
Remove left side saddlebag.
Slide O-ring on gauge toward 0 kg (0 lb) mark.
See Figure 1. Fit cradle against bottom of belt midway between transmission sprocket and rear sprocket.
Push upward on knob until O-ring slides to the 4.5 kg (10 lb) mark on the tool and compare belt deflection to scale on debris deflector.
NOTE
Each graduation on the scale represents 3.2 mm (⅛ in) of belt deflection.
Measure deflection at several locations around the belt. Select the loosest measurement and compare with specifications in Table 1. Belt must be adjusted if not within specification.