When would you change the oil...

[msquad]

So I have a bit over 1100 miles on my '14 SG.
I'm thinking I will only put maybe 200 to 300 more miles on the bike this year seeing I live in the midwest.

Would you change the oil now or wait until done riding for the season so the bike is sitting there w/ new oil for the winter?

I know when riding in cold weather there will be condensation happening in the engine after a ride so I'm thinking it would be good to get that all out and wait to do the oil change when all done riding for the season even though I'm over my 1k service interval (I did adjust the drive belt - had a bit of slack).

If I had unlimited cash I'd just change the oil now and then at the beginning of next year's riding season, but full syn oil is expensive and that is what I use...thanks.

 

[buckshot85]

If your changing to a good synthetic, a few hundred miles means nothing. Short trips are what isn't good when it's cold. The oil needs to come up to normal operating temp for awhile to cook off any condensation. A good synthetic will contain rust inhibitors. Change now or later, won't matter much.

 

[msquad]

Thanks. Yeah, using Amsoil...so that is suppose to be a very good synthetic.

 

[buckshot85]

Your fine Bud. I would be more concerned if it were dyno oil and a 1,000 miles. Hell last year I put mine away with 1,400 miles on the Amsoil. Did the 5k and the 10k this year and the service tech said all looks fine. 10k was done 2 weeks ago and have 600 miles on that now and gonna put probably another 300-400 on that yet.

 

[Mojo]

I wouldn't worry too much about the oil. I usually change mine somewhere around the recommended times the manual says. However, IF you're putting your bike up for the season I'd definitely use a fuel conditioner added to the gas tank.