The inner tooth surface of the secondary belt has a thin coating of polyethylene lubricant. During initial operation, this coating will wear off as it is burnished into the belt fabric. This is a normal condition and not an indication of belt wear.

Belt tension is set at the factory and should be checked after the first 1000 miles (1600 kilometers), at scheduled maintenance intervals, and after a hard ride.

Check belt deflection at the loosest spot in the belt with the transmission in neutral and the motorcycle at ambient temperature. With the motorcycle unladen and resting on its jiffy stand, fit the BELT TENSION GAUGE (Part No. HD-35381A) approximately half-way between sprockets.

See Figure 1. Locate the belt deflection window on the rear drive belt guard/debris deflector and note the belt position relative to the deflection graduations.

Using the BELT TENSION GAUGE, apply 10 lbs. (4.5 kg) of force at the midpoint of the bottom belt. Count the number of graduations between the original belt position and after applying the force. Multiply this number by 1/8 in. (3.2 mm).

See Figure 2 and refer to Table 1 for the recommended deflection. If belt tension adjustment is necessary, see a Harley-Davidson dealer or follow the belt deflection adjustment procedure found in the Sportster Models Service Manual.

When gauging deflection, check the rear brake caliper position on rear brake disc. Disc should run true within brake caliper.