Engine Oil

If you are about to take your bike out of storage after the winter, even if it has only been laid up for a couple of months, consider getting the bike serviced. If this is not an option, then you need to check the oil level to make sure it’s up to the full mark. See your handbook. Always replacing the oil and filter is best, as the oil can get contaminated with condensation from the engine casing, especially if it was put away hot after the last run of the year. Use reputable oil made for motorbikes, such as Silkolene or Putoline. There are other manufacturers, but don’t use ‘cheap’ oil as a seized engine is not a cheap option. Oil filters are not expensive, so again replace. The most expensive oil isn’t always the best for your engine. If your’s needs a semi synthetic oil, don’t use a fully synthetic one and vice versa.

Where possible, pump the oil round the engine before starting ‘in ernest’. Use the kick-start or crank the starter over and switch off so the oil has chance to soak down the cylinders. It will help keep the engine wear down to minimum and maintain the well-being of the machine.