One’s motorcycle remains a most friendly companion throughout the bumpy roads and complicated terrains. That is why it becomes highly important to maximise its performance and keep it in optimum condition. While it should be serviced occasionally, changing from time to time is equally necessary. Regular oil changes not only enhance its performance but also increase the fuel efficiency of the vehicle. Every manufacturer has fixed the required number of oil changes at a specific interval, which the riders need to follow to increase its longevity and avoid faster consumption of fuel. This further helps you save money both in the long and short run. In this blog, we will discuss how changing oil can be helpful and major signs of impure oil. Read along.
How Oil Replacement Can Boost Motorcycle Efficiency
An engine is the lifeblood of any vehicle and nurturing it with the right oil at the right time can maximise its benefit. Here are some key advantages using new oil that ultimately lead to increased fuel and motorcycle efficiency.
- Lubrication
Running your engine on fresh oil helps lubricate the engine components completely. Proper lubrication further prevents friction and wear and tear that may occur over time.
- Removes Impurities
Old oil becomes impure with contaminants due to constant exposure to dirt. It can accumulate metal particles, debris, and harmful residue that may lead to complete engine damage. Moreover, it takes up more fuel to facilitate movement. Replacing your engine oil with a new one will keep your vehicle running efficiently.
- Heat Dispersion
Your engine may heat up significantly with constant operation due to non-functional old oil. Oil replacement helps distribute the heat evenly amongst the moving parts, protecting it from overheating.
- Maintains Clean Engine
An engine with old and impure oil is prone to varnish and build-up of sludge on its components. This decreases the bike’s performance, consuming more fuel. Changing it with a new oil immediately will keep its components clean, thus improving the overall efficiency of the engine.
Red Flags Signalling Oil Change
Your bike tells you in many different ways that it requires good attention and new oil in its body. These are some signs which mean that you need to replace the bike oil now:
- Thin Consistency and Dark Colour
When you bring a new oil, you will notice that it is mostly thick and has a brown or blue colour. This colour transforms into a black colour with repetitive exposure to engine combustion. So, if you find the oil in your vehicle turning a darker shade, consider changing it immediately, as it may result in wear and tear on your engine.
- Oil Consumption
A poor oil will have more consumption and will decrease in volume due to prolonged engine use. If you find that the oil level in your motorcycle drops down, then it might be a sign to replace it.
- Constant Engine Sound
A lubricated engine will feel smooth with zero to negligible sound of the moving parts. Therefore, if you witness a loud sound as you rev the engine and change gears, it indicates that the parts are not optimally lubricated. It may impact the transmission, making it important to replace it with a new oil.
How Often Should You Change Oil In Your Motorcycle
The first step to understanding how frequently you should change oil is to take out your handbook and check the details there! The handbook provided by your bike’s manufacturer will suggest the service intervals. However, various other factors, such as the type of oil used in your motorcycle, the average miles it travels, and its daily riding frequency, are some of the factors that will affect the quality of your oil. This would determine how often it needs to be replaced.
Moreover, many experts suggest that you should consider doing it at least twice a year.
If you are using synthetic motorcycle oil, then change it every once a year or after every 7,000 to 10,000 miles covered. Meanwhile, semi-synthetic oil must be changed after an estimated riding of 5,000 to 6,000 miles.
Conclusion
If you want your motorcycle to champion every ride and enhance your adventures, then schedule the oil change accordingly. The guidelines and advantages of oil change discussed above will allow you to take a mindful approach towards your bike. However, it is important to note that every oil functions differently, under different conditions with various levels of performance. For example, the 10W 30 engine oil works best in cold climates and reduces engine overheating in winter. So, elevate your riding experience with your engine brimming with new oil!