I've read a few threads here on doing a 14T Sprocket mod and some make it sound easy as pie others a PITA where you need a special tool to adjust the chain etc. Some say its hard getting the chain on and off the sprocket. If youre loosening the chain tension by loosening the rear axle bolt and tensioners I dont get why. I got my rear tire off right now to put on a new Rotor so I would think it would be the ideal time to do the 14T sprocket mod. No?

Yeah man not hard at all!  The tool is this thing... for most models.  http://www.motomfg.com/Chain_adjusting_tool_for_Ducati_p/ch-1.htm

I did the following... and finished in approx 30 mins.

1)Removed plastic sprocket cover
2)loosened chain
3)pryed up the little security tab holding the sprocket nut in place
4) removed nut with wrench/prybar.  Make sure you spin it the right way, which I believe it actually reverse from regular threads.  I made the mistake of tightening it on accident.
5) put it all back together

-Jim

It's easy as pie on the DSS bikes. Like you said, bring the chain tensioners forward and you've got plenty of room to play with. Rear wheel off? DAYS of space.

The SSS bikes, however, use an eccentric to adjust chain length, and it "requires" the tool Jimmy posted.

The socket you need may be a step above what's in your normal set.  Maybe time to buy a large socket set rather than an individual socket.  Also this is one of those places where it's good to use your torque wrench for peace of mind if nothing else.  Otherwise pregnant dogin' tight will do.

You don't need the eccentric tool but for those who do it wouldn't be anything they don't need for routine chain tensioning anyhow.

Quote from: Buckethead on May 01, 2012, 07:44:42 AM
It's easy as pie on the DSS bikes. Like you said, bring the chain tensioners forward and you've got plenty of room to play with. Rear wheel off? DAYS of space.

The SSS bikes, however, use an eccentric to adjust chain length, and it "requires" the tool Jimmy posted.

+1

i did mine 2 weeks ago, special chain tool is for single side arm bike. Like said Buckethead with rear wheel off is really easy.. I did all the update in the same time ; new chain, new rear sprocket and -1 with 14t sprocket to the front. if i did, you certainly can do it!
And i bought a 30mm socket for rear axle, and i use torque wrench of a friend.

Should I do a new chain while I'm at it. Mine is the original chain on a 2005. If so where to get one and which one to get?

How many miles on it?

It might be a good time to just replace the front/rear sprockets and chain all together

In my case, the old chain had 19.5k km on it with some rust and links stick, even if i take care of every 500km (because no garage at home the bike is always under a cover outside).
And the new one i bought is DID 520zvmx,like this one:
http://www.motosport.com/cruiser/DID-525-ZVMX-XRING-GOLD-120-LINKS?cc=US
(the price seem over rate, look at monsterparts they sale good stuff with good prices)
which is the one with rivet master link so you need chain riveting tool (like motion pro one, this company have a web site where you can find how to vdo about good way to riveting).

BTW nice tattoo!!

8K miles on the chain and both front and rear sprockets.

Depending on the wear it's a maybe. But at 8k it's a probably that you should get a whole new suite. The oem chain is fine, but not meant to last forever.

If you're going to do the whole deal, look at a bigger rear sprocket (+3) teeth instead of the 14 tooth front.

It's money you're gonna have to spend on the bike sooner or later.

If the rear sprocket and the chain are in good shape, I'd go with the 14 tooth for a total mod cost of like $30.

If the sprocket or the chain are showing wear, as Panda says, it might be worth replacing the whole set and starting fresh.

At 8k, I doubt your sprocket is having issues yet, but your chain might be. Any tight spots? Kinks?