How to Adjust the Gates Belt Tension on Your Solar Sparrow
The Gates Carbon Drive belt on your Solar Sparrow is built for smooth, quiet, low-maintenance riding. Proper tension keeps it performing at its best. Follow this quick guide to measure and adjust belt tension using the Gates app and common tools.
Watch the Step-by-Step Video
Tools You’ll Need
- 5 mm Allen wrench
- 4 mm Allen wrench
- Smartphone with the Gates Carbon Drive app
- A quiet room for accurate readings
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Loosen the rear dropout bolts
With a 5 mm Allen wrench, slightly loosen the bottom two bolts near the rear dropout on both sides. Do not remove them.
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Prepare the Gates app
- Open the Gates Carbon Drive app and select Bicycle.
- Hold your phone so the microphone faces the belt.
- In a quiet room, pluck the belt like a guitar string.
- Rotate the crank a quarter turn and repeat for four total readings.
- Record the average frequency shown in the app.
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Compare to the recommended tension
Target average frequency: 40 Hz. Below 40 Hz means tighten. Above 40 Hz means loosen slightly.
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Adjust the belt tension
- With a 4 mm Allen wrench, find the bolt under the rear dropout.
- Tighten with quarter clockwise turns on both sides.
- Take four new readings, rotating the crank between each.
- Repeat until the average reaches 40 Hz.
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Secure the hardware
Re-tighten the dropout bolts on both sides. Your belt tension is set.
Why Belt Tension Matters
- Smoother, quieter operation
- Longer belt life
- Better power transfer for efficient riding
Need Help?
Our U.S. support team can walk you through it or recommend a local shop.
Call: 866-729-8075
Email: support@euphree.com
