How to change your motorcycle's oil
Most motorcycles share their oil with the clutch and transmission, so the right oil matters even more than in a car.
30 minutesEasySaves $60–120 vs. a dealer
What you need
- Motorcycle oil rated JASO MA or MA2 in your bike's grade
- New oil filter and drain plug crush washer
- Drain pan, funnel, filter wrench
- A rear stand, or a level spot for the side stand
Steps
- Warm the engine for a few minutes, then shut it off and set the bike upright on a stand.
- Remove the drain plug and let the oil drain fully.
- Fit a new crush washer and reinstall the drain plug to the torque in your manual (aluminum cases strip easily).
- Remove the old filter, oil the new filter's gasket, and install it hand-tight plus a quarter turn.
- Fill with the amount in your manual, start the bike for 30 seconds, then shut it off.
- Check the sight glass or dipstick with the bike upright (not on the side stand) and top up as needed.
Tips: Don't use car oil with 'energy conserving' friction modifiers: it can make a wet clutch slip. Harley-Davidson Big Twins also have separate primary and transmission oils.
Get the exact parts for your bike
Oil grade, quantity, filter and part numbers for your exact year and model.
Always follow your owner's manual and use proper safety equipment. Disclaimer
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