Besides fuel, oil is about the most important thing you will put in your motorcycle. Here we will discuss the importance and procedure for performing a basic oil change.
The interval between oil changes is often debated. For the sake of this article, I will suggest you follow the manufacturer's suggested interval, which is usually about 3 months.
Get everything together that you'll need to complete the job.
This is a list of tools you will need to complete the job. Note that because each motor is different, sizes and types of tools will be different.
Tools/Parts Required
- Oil Drain Pan
- Socket Wrench to Remove Oil Drain Plug
- Oil Filter Wrench
- Torque Wrench
- Sufficient Quantity of Correct Oil Type
- Manufacturer Specified Oil Filter
- Shop Rags
Remove the Old Filter and Oil
The first thing you'll want to do is to remove the old oil and filter from the motorcycle. Begin by warming up the motorcycle to normal operating temperature, and then turn the engine off.
From this point on, the engine will be hot and may cause burns. Carefully place the oil drain pan under the motorcycle engine. The oil pan will need to be large enough to hold up to several liters of fluid, depending on your motorcycle.
Some motors have an oil cooler. If yours does, you may need to remove two oil drain plugs. Refer to the owner’s manual for the exact location(s).
While the oil is draining, remove the oil filter. Location, type and size will vary by motorcycle. Be careful when removing the old oil filter, as it will still have oil inside.
Add New Oil and Filter
After the old oil is completely drained out and the old filter has been removed, replace the oil drain plug(s) and tighten to proper torque. If a torque wrench is not available, tighten the drain plug by hand until snug, and then tighten with wrench another 1/3 of a turn.
On the new oil filter, you should find a rubber o-ring attached to the open end of the filter. Wipe a small amount of new oil all around the o-ring with a clean finger.
Attach the new filter to manufacturer specified torque, or if a torque wrench is not available, tighten until snug by hand, then turn another 1/4 of a turn with the oil filter wrench.
Remove the Oil Filler Cap and add approximately 3/4 of the total amount of oil recommended. Replace the oil filler plug. Start the motorcycle and rev it lightly a few times then shut it off.
Remove the oil filler cap again and add the remainder of the new oil, checking as you go to make sure you don't exceed the maximum amount specified.
Finishing Up
Once you have added the proper amount of new oil, replace the oil filler cap. Remove the oil drain pan from under the motorcycle. Wipe any spilled oil from the motorcycle, especially the engine or anyplace that gets hot when the motorcycle is running.
After any spilled oil is wiped up, start the engine and run it at idle speed for a few seconds to get the oil circulating. Turn off the engine and look for any immediate leaks.
Start the engine and run the motorcycle for a short distance. Riding it around the block a couple of times should be enough. Stop and turn off the engine. Wait a few seconds then check the oil level again. Check again for any leaks underneath.
When you finish, be sure to dispose of the old oil properly. Call your local auto-parts store and ask if they have a drum for used oil. You will probably be able to drop it off there for free.
