My mechanic swears that it is better to change the oil on a dirt bike when the bike is cold. He claims all of the particles and contaminants are closer to the drain for a quick exit by allowing time to settle at the bottom vs. churning them up when warming the bike up. However, I have heard and read that it is always best to warm a bike up for a few minutes prior to an oil change to allow particles to exit better? Who is right? Has anyone actually tested or proven which strategy gets rid of dirty oil the best?Christian Chenier
Tampa, FL
For the right answer to this question, we turned to Chris Real. He not only helps us sound test our bikes, he moonlights as a certified lubrication engineer with over 40-years of real-world petroleum industry experience. Here is what he said: “It is proper to have the oil warmed up, even better at operating temperature when you go to drain it. That way the particulates will be suspended in the oil, as well as the other contaminants like moisture inside the engine will be absorbed, not separated, and will drain right out with the old oil.” The best time to change the oil is right after a ride, just make sure you capture the used stuff and dispose of it properly. Now go ride so you can change your oil and save the swearing for improperly trained mechanics. -Jimmy
