Hello...quick question about oil changes. I've got 2,000 miles and one year on all of my fluids...taking a 1,000 mile trip next month. The oil looks really clean, but should I change it, the filter and all the other fluids since I haven't ridden much in the past year?


My flhr has 21,000 miles.


Thanks.


Mark

 

Is it synthetic? If it is, I'd say no.

 

It is synthetic.


Thanks.

 

You'll be fine, no worries. Just check your oil again at 250 miles into the trip.

 

Change it at 25K. I run Amsoil and change every 5K miles, but there may be others who say different. It's your bike and your money, do what you think best.

 

Thanks for the advice, which I am going to take. I appreciate it!

 

Oil is hygroscopic. This means that it absorbs moisture all on it's own, without any help from you or the engine. Water in the oil, even just a tiny little bit, when mixed with the byproducts of combustion that get past the piston rings, creates some very nasty acids . . . not good for engine bearing surfaces (and other shinny expensive parts) . . . to say the least. No matter what oil you use; you are well advised to change it at least once a year no matter how many (or few) miles you put on it. This is why all manufacturers provide owners manuals that state: XXX Miles or XXX Time and then (curiously) they all say "whichever comes first". I don't know of any manufacturer that has engine oil change interval maximums of more than a year . . . for good reason.

 

Your bike has 5k mile oil changes IIRC. Personally I change engine oils at around a year old, regardless of mileage, but to be frank I cannot see any problems for you whatever if you ride as is. Simply check levels and tyre pressures in good time before you set off. Any water in your oils will evaporate off in the first hour of your trip.

 

Id change it for peace of mind. But, Id also say that in a pinch, Id run it.

 

1 year on oil. I would change it without hesitation. The motorcycle is expensive an oil change is not.