Check & top up motorcycle oil
Even the best motorcycle oil can only protect your engine if you keep it at the right level. We explain how to top up your engine oil quickly and safely.
Topping up motorcycle engine oil
If the inspection window or dipstick tells you that your oil level is low, but that the oil is still in good condition, it's a great idea to top up your oil as soon as possible.
The first step in doing this is to make sure you add the right oil. Your bike's user manual can help with this, or you can also use our quick and easy Oil Finder tool.
Once you have your oil, make sure your bike is again parked on level ground and on a centerstand or paddock stand. Your engine should be cool, and you should wait at least 20 minutes to give the oil time to drain fully back into the sump.
- Check the oil level again to see how much oil is required
- Unscrew and remove the oil filler cap
- You should then add a small amount of fresh oil, ideally using a long-neck funnel, and then wait a minute or two for it to arrive in the sump
- Check the level again using the inspection window or dipstick, and keep adding oil in small amounts until you are happy with the level.
Bear in mind that over-filling is as bad for your engine as under-filling; so don't treat the high level mark as a target. It's best to aim for a little below this line.
