Changing your dirt bike oil is another important maintenance of a dirt bike. Having good and clean oil will ensure the dirt bike’s optimal performance. So how often should you change dirt bike oil?
In general, a dirt bike oil change is recommended every 5 to 10 hours of riding. However, it really depends on the type of dirt bike you have, so always check your manual. How often you ride and your rider type also impact how often you should change your dirt bike’s oil.
If you want to know more, scroll down!
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How Frequently Should Dirt Bike Oil Be Changed?
No matter if you have a mini bike or a full-sized dirt bike, please know that changing its oil is crucial to avoid engine issues such as overheating and ensure your dirt bike performs well.
Although it’s a simple task, it’s sometimes overlooked. Thus, always check if your vehicle is due for an oil change during your maintenance schedule. With changing your oil, change your oil filter regularly because it also tends to get dirty due to oil breakdowns.
So, how frequently should dirt bike oil be changed? Oil change frequency depends on many factors, such as your engine type and what kind of a rider you are.
1. Engine types
4 stroke dirt bike
On a 4 stroke dirt bike, you have to change your oil after 10 to 15 hours of riding. Also, as some 4 stroke dirt bikes have two oil compartments, you need to change them both simultaneously.
2 stroke dirt bike
In contrast, if you have a 2 stroke dirt bike, an oil change should be every 5 to 10 hours of riding. As well, it doesn’t have a separate compartment for oil. Instead, it uses pre-mixed oil (i.e., the oil is added to the fuel).
2. Types of riding
What kind of rider you are will also have an effect on how often you should change your dirt bike oil.
Racing
If you’re into racing or motocross, an oil change is recommended every after the race. The reason is that you’re pushing your dirt bike to its optimal performance every ride, so changing your oil will ensure its maintenance, helping you avoid engine issues in the long run.
Regular riding
For regular riders, such as if you’re just riding your dirt bike for enjoyment, it’s advisable to change your dirt bike oil every five to ten hours of riding.
Street-legal dirt bike
Unlike dirt bikes used for racing and regular riding, street-legal dirt bikes used not regularly can have their oil change every few months. Doing so is enough to maintain your motorcycle and ensure your oil doesn’t get dirty.
3. Signs It’s Time for an Oil Change
If your dirt bike is experiencing any of the symptoms below, it may be time to change your motorcycle oil.
Your oil is black
Having black oil is a telltale sign that your dirt bike needs an oil change. Remember that a clean oil has a brown or honey color, and when it starts to change its color, it’s time for an oil change.
Loud engine noise
Engine noise is normal, but once your engine starts having unusually loud noise, it may be due to dirty oil. As well it could be because of a lack of lubrication, causing friction against your engine parts.
The oil level is too low
Aside from having dirty oil, a low oil level indicates that you have to change your oil. This may be caused by engine leaks or having too old oil. You can use a dipstick to check the oil level or look at the sight glass in your dirt bike.
Poor engine performance
Having dirty oil or a low oil level can negatively impact your engine. In turn, it also affects the performance of your engine, as it prevents it from providing the necessary power for your dirt bike.
Gear and clutch issues
In addition to causing engine issues, having bad oil or not enough oil can result to the rider having difficulty changing the gears or operating the clutch. If you experience this, it could be time for an oil change.
Conclusion
So how often should you change dirt bike oil? Oil change interval should be every 5 to 10 hours, but for 4-stroke models, it’s recommended to be every 10 to 15 hours. However, you should also consider the type of riding you’re doing. For instance, if you’re into racing, oil change should be done after every race for proper maintenance.
Another thing to remember is the signs that tell you it’s time to change your dirt bike oil, such as poor engine performance and dirty oil. This way, your dirt bike can always perform well!
