[Smart Tips] How to Change Your Bike Engine Oil

The engine is the heart of a bike, and changing engine oil can make a big difference for the engine’s performance and fuel efficiency. Learn more about how to change your bike engine oil with Kixx.

Proper oil maintenance is a must.

Here’s what you’ll need to change your oil: engine oil, an oil filter, gloves, wipes, a funnel, a wrench and socket set,​ a drain pan for oil disposal, and a bike stand.​

To start, prepare engine oil, an oil filter, gloves, wipes, a funnel, a wrench and socket set, a drain pan and a bike stand.

Since bikes vary by model, we’ll show you two options.​ Start the bike and warm up the engine to its normal operating temperature.​

Step 1. Choose the Right Engine Oil and Filter

Check your bike’s manual to make sure you have the right engine oil.

Check your bike’s manual and make sure you have the right engine oil and filter.​

Step 2. Prepare for Oil Drainage

Make sure your bike is on a flat surface and leveled.

For better engine oil drainage, make sure your bike is on a flat surface and leveled. ​Remove the oil cap on the top of the engine,​ and place a drain pan underneath the oil tank to collect the used oil.

Step 3. Drain the Engine Oil

Locate the oil tank bolts on the underside of the bike and carefully unscrew it counterclockwise.

Locate the oil tank bolts on the underside of the bike and carefully unscrew it counterclockwise, then wait for the waste oil to completely drain out. Note that some bikes have an engine guard underneath, which needs to be removed beforehand. After completely draining the used oil, tighten the bolt to close the tank.​
Be careful not to overtighten the bolt as it may cause wear and fail to fully secure. ​

After completely draining the used oil, tighten the bolt to close the tank.

Step 4. Change the Oil Filter

Some bike models do not have an oil filter.

Some bike models do not have an oil filter.​ If your bike requires an oil filter change, follow along to see how this is done.​

Remove the existing oil filter, then take the new filter and apply a small amount of oil before installing it.

Remove the existing oil filter from the bottom of the bike by slowly turning it counterclockwise. Then, take the new filter and apply a small amount of oil around the seal before installing it. ​​Keep in mind that this may vary depending on bike models. Be careful not to over-tighten the new filter!

Step 5. Add New Engine Oil

Fill the oil tank with fresh engine oil, then close the oil cap.

Fill the oil tank with fresh engine oil using a funnel, then close the oil cap.​ Warm up the engine and allow ​a minute or two for the new engine oil to settle​.

Depending on your model, check the engine oil gauge to ensure it’s at the proper level and drain or top off as needed. Finish off by cleaning any excess oil on the engine surface.​

Change your oil regularly, Kixx: [YouTube Link]

Learn more about how to check your bike engine oil at:

[Kixx Tutorial] How to Check Your Bike Engine Oil | Kixx Newsroom (kixxoil.com)