How to Change Your Motorcycle Oil in 7 Easy Steps

Keeping your motorcycle in top shape doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. One of the simplest and most essential maintenance tasks is changing your oil. By doing it yourself, you not only save money but also ensure your bike gets the care it deserves. Here’s a step-by-step guide to changing your motorcycle oil in just seven easy steps.

1. Gather Your Tools and Supplies

Before you dive in, make sure you have everything you need. Here’s your checklist:

• Wrench: To remove the drain plug.

• Oil filter wrench: If your filter is tricky to access.

• Drain pan: To catch the old oil.

• New oil: Refer to your owner’s manual for the correct type and quantity.

• New oil filter: Specific to your motorcycle model.

• Gloves and rags: To keep your hands clean and tidy up spills.

Having all your tools at hand ensures the process goes smoothly without interruptions.

2. Prepare Your Motorcycle

Start by warming up your engine for a few minutes. This helps the oil flow more easily, making it easier to drain. Once warmed up, turn off the engine and place your motorcycle on a stable stand. A stable bike means fewer chances of spills or accidents.

Safety tip: Always wear gloves to protect your hands and avoid burns from warm engine parts.

3. Drain the Old Oil

Locate the oil drain plug, typically found at the bottom of the engine. Position your drain pan underneath and use a wrench to remove the plug. Let the oil flow out completely; this may take a few minutes.

Pro tip: Tilt your bike slightly to ensure every last drop is drained. Once finished, clean the drain plug and replace it securely.

4. Remove and Replace the Oil Filter

Use your oil filter wrench to unscrew the old filter. Be prepared for a bit of residual oil to spill. Inspect the old filter for wear and dispose of it responsibly.

Before installing the new filter, apply a thin layer of fresh oil to its rubber seal. This helps create a tight seal and makes it easier to remove during the next oil change. Screw it in hand-tight; over-tightening can damage the seal.

5. Add New Oil

Remove the oil fill cap and pour in the new oil. Use a funnel to avoid spills. Refer to your owner’s manual for the exact quantity required.

After filling, replace the cap and wipe away any spills. Don’t start your engine just yet—there’s one more step to go.

6. Start and Check Your Motorcycle

Turn on the engine and let it run for a minute or two. This circulates the new oil throughout the system. Turn it off and check the oil level using the dipstick or sight glass.

If the level is low, add a bit more oil and recheck. Avoid overfilling, as this can harm your engine.

7. Dispose of the Old Oil and Filter

Used oil and filters are hazardous to the environment. Collect the old oil in a sealed container and take it, along with the used filter, to a recycling center or auto parts store that accepts oil waste.

Never pour oil down the drain or onto the ground—keeping our planet clean is part of being a responsible rider.

Conclusion

Changing your motorcycle oil is a rewarding and straightforward task that keeps your bike running smoothly. By following these seven easy steps, you’ll not only improve your motorcycle’s performance but also gain the confidence to handle other basic maintenance tasks. Ready to roll? Check out our other motorcycle maintenance guides and keep your bike in peak condition!