Originally Posted By: friendly_jacek
i'm well aware of problems with short trips in a car and I define short trip as less than 5-10 miles (in mild climate).
now, how about a motorcycle? specifically i'm thinking 250cc, 4-cycle, water cooled, with 1.6 qts oil capacity?
thanks!
Its most likely in the owners manual, most times in the OCI part of the manual, there will be reference to 'Notes" 1, 4, etc
Its really no different then an automobile, short trips and out of the ordinary conditions, also when you know the oil is not getting up to FULL operating conditions.
Example, this is right out the Harley Davidson owners manual for my 2014 touring bike, most people do not know this statement exists under "Notes" as it is for most bikes.
"1. Perform annually or at specified intervals, whichever comes first"
"2. Perform maintenance more frequently in severe riding conditions such as extreme temperatures, dusty environment, mountainous or rough roads, long storage conditions, short runs, heavy stop/go traffic or poor fuel quality"
_______
Also in the manual there is a Winter Lubrication Paragraph -
" Change engine oil often in colder climates. If motorcycle is frequently used for trips less then 15 miles, in ambient temperatures below 60 (degrees)F reduce oil change intervals to 1500 mi (2400km)"
_________
Another interesting note in the manual - (I have also seen the reference about not switching brands in other motorcycle manufacturers manuals as well)
"Notice"
"Do not switch lubricant brands indiscriminately because some lubricants interact chemically with mixed. Use of inferior lubricants can damage the engine."