How Often Do You Need to Change Your Motorcycle’s Oil?

No matter how many years one has driven a car, there are still some details about motorcycles that will take getting used to. Changing a motorcycle’s oil is a crucial part of upkeep, but staying on the same oil change schedule a car requires would be a mistake.

What Purpose Does Motor Oil Serve? 

Motor oil serves numerous functions in a bike, including being a lubricant for the moving parts of the engine. This reduces harmful wear and tear on the inside. The oil can also clean important internal machinery and protect its functions against extremely high temperatures, making its upkeep a crucial part of motorcycle safety.

How Often Does Oil Need to Be Changed?

In general, many bike experts recommend that one should change the oil in their bike roughly ever 3,700 miles. However, this number can vary based on what type of oil was used during the last change. If a mineral-based motor oil was used, it should be changed around 2,000 miles. Semi-synthetic motor oil should be changed every 5,000 to 6,000 miles, while fully-synthetic motor oil only needs to be changed 7,000 to 10,000 miles.

What About Bikes That Don’t Get Used Often?

Those who don’t ride their motorcycle as their main method of transportation may go more than a year without racking up 2,000 miles on their bike. In this case, the oil should be changed at least twice a year, even if it’s being held in winter storage.

What About Bikes That Get Heavy Use?

Similarly, those that ride their bikes miles and miles every day may have different oil change needs. For those who feel that their oil is dirty or that their engine isn’t performing up to its full capability, the oil should be changed even if the mileage is under the standard benchmark.

First-time bikers and motorcycle veterans alike are responsible for proper bike maintenance to ensure the safety and longevity of their ride. For more information about proper bike upkeep, our inventory, or our financing options, contact us today.