Yes, it is generally recommended to get your oil changed before taking a long trip on your motorcycle. Here are a few reasons why:
Fresh oil for optimal performance: Long trips often involve extended periods of riding, which can put additional strain on your motorcycle's engine. Fresh oil provides better lubrication and helps maintain the engine's performance, ensuring smoother operation and reducing the risk of overheating.
Removing contaminants: Over time, engine oil accumulates dirt, debris, and combustion byproducts. These contaminants can affect the oil's ability to lubricate effectively and may lead to increased engine wear. By getting an oil change before your trip, you remove these contaminants and provide your engine with cleaner oil.
Checking oil levels and condition: During an oil change, the oil levels are checked, and the old oil is drained, allowing you to inspect it for any signs of unusual wear or contamination. This provides an opportunity to identify potential issues early on and address them before embarking on a long journey.
Peace of mind: Knowing that your motorcycle has fresh oil and that the engine is properly lubricated can give you peace of mind during your trip. It reduces the chances of encountering oil-related problems, such as oil leaks or engine malfunctions, which could disrupt your journey.
To ensure the best performance and reliability during your long trip, consult your motorcycle's owner's manual for the recommended oil change interval. It's also a good idea to have other regular maintenance tasks, such as checking tire pressure, brakes, and fluid levels, performed before embarking on a long journey.