How to treat your bike to some fresh engine oil for 2021
A New Year’s oil change will keep your parts protected
1 Go for the genuine article
It doesn’t get more fundamental than your bike’s engine oil, so don’t overshoot intervals or use pattern parts when home servicing. The price difference between genuine and pattern parts is very little, and genuine parts are often super critical to an engine’s longevity. All you need is an oil filter, new sump plug washer and the correct grade of oil.
2 Strip down for easy access
Have a flick through your bike’s workshop manual to see if any bodywork panels need to be removed prior to starting the job. You will need to gain access to the sump plug, which is located at the very bottom of the engine, and the oil filter which is often found at the front of the engine behind the exhaust downpipes.
3 Get ready to drain
If your machine doesn’t have a centrestand, use paddock stands front and rear to hold the bike upright and make sure it is completely level. Place a drain tray under the sump plug and have some paper towel on hand to catch any spillage. It’s a good idea to start this job when the engine is warm to allow the oil to flow more easily.
4 Sump unplugged
With your drain tray in position under the bike. Locate the sump plug, crack it to release and then undo by a couple of turns with the ratchet before removing completely by hand. As the plug is on the last thread remove it sideways so as not to disrupt the flow of oil. Make sure the oil is flowing directly into the centre of the tray.