How to check your motorbike engine oil

Motorbike engine oil enables a motorcycle’s engine, transmission, and clutch to operate properly.

We have created a handy guide to checking your motorbike engine oil.

Full video information

We have created a handy guide to checking your motorbike engine oil.

Motorbike engine oil enables a motorcycle’s engine, transmission, and clutch to operate properly.

An engine in good condition uses very little oil. If you seem to use a lot of oil, ask a garage to check for leaks.

Always use motorcycle engine oil - not oil designed for use in car engines.

Before checking your oil

Park your bike on a level surface, engine off, handbrake on.

The engine should have been warmed up, so the oil’s a bit runny. You’ll get a more accurate reading.

Caution – engine & oil will be hot

Checking your oil

Some bikes have an inspection window and some bikes use a dipstick

Either way, check where your oil level is between the MIN and MAX markings.

It is important to ensure that the oil level doesn't drop below the minimum marking. If your oil looks low, add motorcycle engine oil only. And be careful to add just a little at a time. It’s easier to add more oil into the engine than to take it out.

Be careful not to spill any oil. And if you do, make sure it hasn’t got on your brakes or tyres. That could make your next ride a bit slippy.

Check that your oil filler cap is properly fitted once you’re finished. And just tick the engine over. Get the oil in the system and check for leaks. If that’s all good, turn the engine off and give it five minutes before checking the oil level one last time.

When you have finished checking your oil, make sure you store any old or used engine oil in a container that will not leak or take to an oil recycling bank.

Now you know ways to check your motorcycle engine oil. If you need any more tips from our ‘Bike How To’ series, you can find them by visiting our spotlight motorbike hub

Disclaimer

Our “Bike How To” videos bring you handy hints which we hope will save you time and money, but please remember, this video is a general one and may not be suitable for your specific purpose. This video is not intended as a substitute for professional help or guidance, always speak to a trained professional and where applicable, always consult manufacturer’s handbook.

Reference

www.halfords.com

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