I found this thread which confirmed what I knew about not starting my bike for a short period in the winter [Northern Maryland] due to the engine not being able to heat enough to evaporate internal engine condensation.

What I want to know is how short is too short for a winter ride?

I love to commute to work year round, but I have a 3 mile commute and my engine oil gauge usually only reaches about 150 degrees in that short period.

So am I safe in continuing my short commute? Or do I winterize it until spring [which I would hate to do]...or choose a longer route...and if so, how long is long enough?

 

Was always taught 15 or 20 minutes running once up to operating temperature. Your next oil change will tell you volumes about the condensation inside the engine.

 

At 150° your oils not heating up enough to evaporate any moisture build up from condensation. Id be taking the long way home

 

Personally I wouldn't ride it that short distance in the cold and is why I take my truck to work.

 

I have a short commute also. I just make sure I take a nice long ride on the weekends
and I dont sweat it. If you are really worried about it then just change your oil more often.

 

My commute is also three miles. Ynot take Ynot's advice? I do. Leave 10 or 15 minutes early and turn that 3 miler into 10. Get to work in a good state of mind!

 

Not getting your engine up to temp does leave condensation and will break down oil. I have the clarity covers on my bike and it looks like a milk shake in the cam cover untill the moisture evaporates out. It does take about 6-10 miles for it to start clearing up

 

I'll trade you my commute. Win/win.

 

Pull your bike out 10-15 minutes early and start it. Let it warm up before you get on and ride it to work. Check your oil temp gauge when you get to work.

 

What is this 3 mile ride of which you speak? For some odd reason, known only to the spirits of motorcycles, my 3 mile rides always pan out to be 10 miles.