Total Motorcycle Community Forums

If I were to follow the alternate break in method, I'd be changing the oil filter and oil after about 50 miles or so.

I have no personal problem changing the oil and filter on my own except for one thing. I have no lift.

Instead of not changing it till 500 miles (dealer is a long ways away), what about a one time oil/filter change with someone on the bike holding it centered? I could even raise or lower the front/rear tire with a 2X4 to get more oil/chips out.

Thoughts as to this alternative to waiting for 500 miles which won't be till spring and way past 50 miles?

On a brand new bike, the most important thing to do is change the oil within the first 50 miles.

This removes any of the metal particles/shavings that are left over from production.

On new bikes, I highly recommend following that proceedure.

If you don't have a centerstand, you could have someone hold the bike... or just put some boards under the sidestand (just make sure not to knock the bike over!!). Either way, if you have a buddy, I would have him/her hold your bike while you are doing it if you are worried about it.

Follow your manual. I'm guessing none of us watermellons on the Internet designed and built your motorcycle.

I just put the drain pan under the bike, remove the plug, let most of the oil drain out, then stand over the bike for a few minutes to let everything else drain out. It doesn't need to be a 2-person job.

Follow it to the point where it's safe. If you're driving on the free way going 40mph because you don't wanna shift past 4K. That's not safe. Safety is your priority.