How To Change Bike Engine Oil

It is evident that when you buy a motorcycle, regular maintenance of the vehicle is necessary for a smooth ride and to increase the life of your vehicle. One crucial thing is regularly changing the motorcycle's engine oil. This is vital for proper lubrication of your engine parts, reducing friction between them, and preventing wear and tear on the engine. While it is common to take your bike for regular servicing to the service stations, did you know you can change the bike oil at home? No? Then, let’s see how to change bike engine oil on this page. These bike oil change tips can come in handy for motorcycle enthusiasts.

Bike Engine Oil Change Tips

Before you begin an oil change, it is important that you choose a clean and well-lit space for changing the bike engine oil. Put your motorcycle on the centre stand for ease of work. Gather all the tools and equipment you will require in advance and keep them handy for use. Here are some bike oil change tips:

1. Choose a Clean Work Area: Ensure that the site of the oil change is tidy and free of dust and any unwanted contaminants.
2. Locate Oil Filter and Drain Plug: Check the owner's guide to determine the position of the oil filter and drain plug on your individual motorbike model. The drain plug is usually found on the lower part of the engine's crankcase, whereas the oil filter could be near the engine's block or on the frame. Take off any components that prevent accessibility to the drain plug, filler plug, or oil filter. Certain motorcycles might necessitate removing fairings or foot pegs.
3. Remove the Oil from the Engine: Once the oil filter and drain plug are located, position the drain container below the drain plug to collect used oil. Following that, with the help of a socket wrench, remove the oil-fill cap and then the drain plug. Let the old oil drain for 5–10 minutes till the oil stream diminishes to a trickle.
4. Take off the Oil Filter: While the draining of oil is in progress, proceed with removing the old oil filter. You can untighten the filter manually, but using a wrench is considerably simpler than doing it manually. It is important to note that the tools and procedures needed to unscrew the filters of cartridge type might vary. For this, you can check your bike's manual. Wipe the region between the oil filter ring (gasket) and the engine with a clean cloth.
5. Fit a New Oil Filter: To lubricate and seal the filter gasket, spread some fresh oil with your finger. With regards to the spin-on type of oil filter, tighten the fresh oil filter by moving clockwise until it is firm but still detachable by hand. To firmly secure the filter, use a filter wrench and tighten it by a quarter-turn after hand-tightening. Reinstalling the oil filter cover on cartridge-type oil filters may require the use of tools.
6. Put Back the Drain Plug in Its Place: If your bike's drain plug contains a gasket, replace it with a fresh one. Tighten the drain plug in manually until it is firm, to prevent the chances of thread misalignment. If you find any resistance, unscrew it and retry. Finally, use a torque wrench adjusted to the manufacturer's torque specifications to finish tightening. If you don't have a torque tool, use a socket or box wrench to secure the drain plug to quarter turn from hand-tightening.
7. Add New Bike Oil: Read your owner's manual to determine the quantity of oil required. Based on the bike, a dipstick or a sight glass can be used to check the oil levels. Use a funnel to add 75% of the advised quantity of oil. Verify the level of oil and ensure that the motorcycle is level. Keep adding oil till the tank's level is between the minimum and maximum marks. Replace the oil fill cap.
8. Inspect for Leaks: Start the engine, let it run for some time, and check for any leaks from the oil filter or drain plug. Remove some oil if required. Also, make sure that there are no warning indicators on your motorcycle.
9. Carefully Dispose of Old Oil and Filters: After you've refilled your bike, it's usually easier to transfer the old oil from the drain container to the empty new oil bottle or can. Dispose of old oil and filters correctly and in line with government standards. Most vehicle parts retailers and oil change centres accept and recycle used oil for free to prevent it from damaging the waters around us.

Conclusion

In conclusion, changing your bike’s engine oil is a simple process that can be done at home with a few tools. By following these motorcycle oil change tips, you can ace the oil changing procedure and maintain your vehicle with ease. Also, do not forget to purchase a two-wheeler insurance policy for your bike. It is a legal requirement as well as necessary to protect you from unforeseen circumstances. Research thoroughly before purchasing two-wheeler insurance, and use a bike insurance calculator to know your premium rate instantly.

FAQs
Can I change my bike's engine oil at home?

Yes, you can easily change your bike’s engine oil at home. Follow the above-mentioned motorcycle oil change tips and be a pro at it.

Is it necessary to change the oil filter while changing the bike's engine oil?

It is advisable to replace the oil filter when you change the engine oil for better performance of your bike.

Can I dispose of the used or old oil at home?

It is not recommended to dispose of the oil at home, because it can pollute the waterways. You can take the used oil to the vehicle parts retailers and oil change centres, and they will take it for free and recycle it.

Disclaimer: The above information is indicative in nature. For more details on the risk factor, terms and conditions, please refer to the Sales Brochure and Policy Wordings carefully before concluding a sale.