Fork oil change
yes it is necessary. Just like motor oil or trans oil, the fork oil wears out too. It may not be subjected to the heat of the engine, but there area bunch of holes inside your forks that allow the oil to move around and cushion the front end. That friction causes heat and as we all know heat destroys oil. Also you should probably change out to a heavy fork oil, like the Screamin Eagle fork oil or Spectro heavy or something like that. It will make the front end feel alot more firm, it will help breaking and it will handle better too.
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 3,352
Likes: 4
From: Augusta, GA
I installed Race Tech Gold Valves (a high performance upgrade) in my forks @ 10K. All I can tell you is my oil was completely wasted when I made the change. Now it's every 10K without fail.
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 7,476
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From: Republic of Texas
Yes, it is necessary. I change mine twice a year. I notice it in the wideglide more than the softtail. Wideglide hits hard when the fork oil is old.
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Banned
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 11,436
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Yes change it out, use the SE HEAVY FORK OIL. Put a container under fork drain plug, and mark how much oil comes out on the container. Just add the same amount as you took out is the easiest method.
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Former Sponsor
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 5,360
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From: Davie, FL
10K Miles for sure
Only change your oil if you wish to keep your bike in good running order. While you are at it pull the sliders and check the bushings and if they look like this (go to the bottom of the page) than change them also. Of course you really do not need to as long as you do not mind swaying down the road to the sound of the music. You may wish to consider having a reputable mechanic service your bike than for sure you do not need to change your fork oil.