Keeping your motorcycle in excellent condition requires proper maintenance, which involves changing its engine oil at the appropriate time. Oil changes can be quite costly, however, a common issue that Torque Group, with its Elite Care Maintenance Program, addresses.
Still, the question remains: how often should you change your motorcycle oil? The answer depends on the following factors:
1. The motorcycle type
How often you change your motorcycle oil will depend on said motorcycle’s year, make, and model. Thus, it would be a good idea to pose the above question to your bike’s manufacturer. Generally speaking, however, you should have the oil changed a minimum of once every year.
2. The type of oil you’re using
The motorcycle type will determine the type of oil it uses. In general, there are three kinds of oil: fully synthetic, semi-synthetic, and mineral. If your bike uses fully synthetic oil; an oil change is advised every 7,000 to 10,000 miles. If semi-synthetic, it’s every 5,000 to 6,000 miles. If mineral, you should change the oil every 2,000 miles, at least. Make sure to use the proper oil for your bike.
3. Your frequency of motorcycle use
Regular motorcycle use, especially for long trips, will require more frequent oil changes regardless of the type of oil it uses.
Ironically, using your bike for short trips, such as those lasting less than half an hour, can also increase the risk of engine damage. This is because short trips don’t give the engine the appropriate opportunity to get hot, lube up, cleanse itself, then cool down. It’s ideal for the engine to be active for a minimum of 30 minutes at least twice a month. If this isn’t doable, then you should change the motorcycle oil thrice yearly, or every four months.
It’s crucial you conduct regular examinations of the quality and level of the oil. You’ll know an oil change is in order when the oil looks filthy, or you observe a change in the motorcycle’s performance. You should also change the oil filter to prevent the new oil from being contaminated.
Torque Group’s Elite Care Maintenance Program ensures motorcycle owners against costly maintenance services, with options in terms for 18 months and 3 full services, or 36 months with up to 6 full services. It also comes with Oil Care Plus, which pays for up to 4 oil changes and safety inspection over 24 months. This provides a budget-friendly alternative for motorcycle owners worried about steep costs often associated with oil changes.
For more information on the Elite Care Maintenance Program and Oil Care Plus, kindly visit the Torque Group website. Feel free to contact us at (800) 859 0590 or via email if you have any questions!
