Subject bike: 2011 796ABS.
One of the annoying features of the newest 2v monsters is the common complaint that the clutch throw is set very far out from the grip from the factory.
must conjecture and 'horror' stories abound online about the fact that the set screw for the MC plunger is glued over. (just the slot of the screw that is...)
now for the facts and the happy report that minor adjustment does in deed reap huge benefit.
this is the screw i talk of:
the screw is cupped on the other end and held in place by a spring that presses against the thread of the worm screw. The interior side of the screw pushes against the clutch m/c plunger that in turn actuates the clutch slave releasing the clutch pack.
1. b/c its glued over its easiest to work on it off the bike - so remove it from the M/C - undo the stamped nut on the other end of the pivot bolt (19mm) and withdraw pivot - that's about it!
2. with the lever off - it's easier to pick off the glue covering the slotted worm screw. i used a handheld torch to burn it off - then the glue just broke off with a small flat head screwdriver - clear debris and clean off area.
3. before making any adjustment - mark off the stock location - i scored the soft alu housing with a sharp object to index the factory location.
4. to move the clutch engagement point INWARDS, then BACK OFF the screw (counter-clockwise) 1/4 turn at a time.
5. return lever to m/c with pivot and stamped nut but remember to place the clutch switch holder back on before the stamped nut and position into place so it engages when the lever is pulled in. tighten the stamped nut with only the socket by hand - no wrenches. over tightening will bind the lever.
6. no aaaannd deeeen. enjoy easy clutch point adjustment!
HOT TIP: your ducati key is a perfect fit for adjusting the set screw on the fly (well, when off the bike)... so far i'm happy with 1/4 turn backed off. experimenting with 1/2 turn pulled the engagement spot a bit closer than halfway to the bar when the lever is fully pulled in... may be too much for some. i found 1/4 turn pulled it in just enough to stop the engagement point from being annoying. pretty dang happy.
for all the over-cautious out there, if you mark it before you play around you can return to stock no problem. there is no risk.
the only possible issue that can arise if from TURNING IN the screw with the effect of pushing the engagement out further - why anyone would want to do that when the chief complaint is that it's too far out to begin with is anyone's guess.
this works perfectly, spares you from costly aftermarket levers (which do not add slack to the engagement point btw, just bring the lever closer - two different things).
I'm pretty happy with the adjustment. The stock set spring will keep the screw in place, but if you want after setting it perfectly to your liking you can remove the lever again, stand it with the screw face pointing up and trickle loctite 222 down the sides.
Hope it improves your rel'ship with your coffin-m/c 2v ducati.
Now for changing the annoyingly tall stock gearing.
