Reading my auto owners manuals I see that Severe Duty oil change schedules are twice as often the normal schedule. The way I ride isn't like a commuter.
Thus, I follow an informal oil change schedule.
For many motorcycle riders though, time is what requires a change. Every oil and filter manufacturer says that both must be changed annually.
I've seen the Blackstone reports on other motorcycle tests at 5,000 to 6,000 miles. With the exception of Amsoil, it was time for that oil to go as the additives were exhausted. Blackstone tests don't look at the long chain lubricating molecules to see if they are torn apart. Instead they infer this from other aspects of testing.
With the Euro desire for environmental nirvana, there is a push for 10,000 mile oil changes with autos. Makes sense for Ducati to say 9,000 mile oil changes with their Group 3+ synthetic oil.
If I was riding around the country on an Iron Butt ride, 9,000 miles might be just fine. The way I ride, and where I ride, leads me to believe that as the oil level sight glass shows dark oil, it's prudent to change the oil and filter.
It costs me $50.40 to change the oil and filter. Very small price for the certainty that the best of lubrication is in place.
