Motorcycle maintenance does get expensive at times, and with a recession looming, nobody wants to overpay on something as simple as an oil change.
In this article, we’ll give you a rundown of the average motorcycle oil change cost, what factors can affect price, and some tips on how to save money.
How Much Does The Average Motorcycle Oil Change Cost?
If you’re planning on taking your motorcycle to a mechanic or the dealership, then the oil change will set you back by $80 to $120. But, if you own a Harley and it’s time to change the oil in “all three holes”, then you’re probably going to pay around $200 to $250.
However, if you do the oil change yourself (it’s incredibly easy), then you’ll only have to pay around $60 for the oil, filter, and drain bolt crush washer. You’ll save $40 if not more!
How to Save Money on a Motorcycle Oil Change
Obviously, the single best way to save money on an oil change is to just do it yourself. It’s super easy, and it won’t take you more than 15 minutes. All you need is a few basic tools, which you likely already have.
Now, not everybody is comfortable doing their own motorcycle oil change. And that’s perfectly understandable. If that’s the case, then there are still a few things you can do to save money.
First, you don’t need to buy the most expensive engine oil out there. Unless you’re doing frequent track days, or really pushing your motorcycle on the streets, then there’s no point in buying the most expensive oil.
Not a lot of people know this, but most motorcycle engine oils are manufactured at the same plants and they’re not as different from each other as they might seem. Obviously, you also shouldn’t buy the cheapest oil you come across – just go with a known brand and make sure that the oil meets the JASO specifications required by your motorcycle.
Finally, avoid the dealership if possible. We’re not saying that they’re bad at their job, but they do tend to charge more than independent mechanics and shops. If you can find a good, reputable independent mechanic – that’s usually the best route to take.
Why Are Motorcycle Oil Changes So Expensive?
Motorcycle oil changes can get pretty expensive, there’s no doubt about that. But, there are a few reasons for it.
First, the oil itself is more expensive than car oil. This is because motorcycle oil needs to be able to withstand crazy high RPMs, and it’s also often tasked with lubricating the gearbox and the clutch.
Second, the oil filters are usually more expensive as well. The demand isn’t huge for them, so dealers take every chance to increase the price.
Finally, motorcycle oil changes often require a few extra steps. For example, on many motorcycles, the mechanic will also have to remove the fairings around the engine, before he’s able to get access to the engine drain bolt. This means that the mechanic has to spend more time on the job, and that’s reflected in the final price.
How Often Should You Change the Engine Oil on a Motorcycle?
In most cases, you should change the motorcycle oil every 4,000 to 5,000 miles. However, this number can be lower or higher depending on the make of your motorcycle, and how you ride it.
For example, if you frequently ride in dusty or dirty conditions, then you might need to change the oil more frequently. The same goes if you do a lot of track days or push your motorcycle to the limits on the streets.
On the other hand, if you ride a newer motorcycle with a synthetic oil, and you don’t do any of the above, then you might be able to extend the interval to 7,000 miles or even more. To be safe, it’s always best to check your motorcycle’s service manual to see what the manufacturer recommends.
Do I Really Need to Change My Motorcycle Oil That Often?
This is a question that a lot of motorcycle riders ask, and it’s a valid one. After all, changing your oil every 4,000 miles does cost money, and it’s a bit of a hassle. So, do you really need to change your motorcycle oil that often?
The answer is – yes, at least if you want your engine to last a long time.
You see, over time, the oil in your motorcycle’s engine will start to break down. It will also pick up all sorts of contaminants from the clutch and so on. This, in combination with the engine oil becoming acidic over time, will lead to increased engine wear.
So, by changing your motorcycle oil regularly, you’re essentially flushing nearly all the contaminants out of your engine, and you’re giving it a chance to start fresh. This, in turn, will lead to longer engine life.
Of course, you could also just take your chances and ride your motorcycle without changing the oil, but you won’t save money in the long run when the engine will need to be rebuilt earlier than it should.
Final Thoughts
As you can see, motorcycle oil changes aren’t cheap, but they are necessary if you want your engine to last.
In most cases, you should change the oil every 4,000 to 5,000 miles, but this number can be higher or lower depending on the make of your motorcycle and how you ride it.
So, what are your thoughts on motorcycle oil changes? Do you think they’re too expensive, or do you think it’s worth it to change your oil regularly? Let us know in the comments below!
Nick Kowalski is a diesel mechanic by trade, but his passion lies in motorcycles.
He’s been riding them since he was just a wee lad, and he loves restoring old Japanese street bikes and ATVs in his spare time.
Nick is an adrenaline junkie at heart, and he loves nothing more than hitting the open road on his motorcycle.