Checking motorcycle oil with Dipstick:

The motorcycle oil level is usuall checked with teh motorcycle on its centerstand or sidestand, as applicable. But always make sure the motorcycle is level.

Most Harley Davidson Sportsters and Softairls are exceptiois to the logical sidestand rule. They must be checked with teh motorcycle standing staight up and level. This can be a major pain unless you always have someone handy to hold the motorcycle upright when you want to check your motorcycle oil. You've got a couble of options.

1. Keep a pair of jackstands handy in the garage

2. Learn to balance the motorcycle really well with one hand while you pull the dipstick out withthe other

3. When you know the motorcycle oil level is correct put it on the sidestand and check where the level is now. Make a mark on your dipstick and use that mark to check the motorcycle in the future. Be sure to double check and make sure your mark is accurate.

In general you want to follow the follwoing steps:

1. With the engine warmed to normal operationg temerature, park teh motorcycle on a level surface.

2. REmove the dipstick from teh ike. Most Japanese and German motorcycles use the threaded dipstick, gently turn the tab counterclockwise until it is free, then remove it by pulling straight upward. The dipsticks on most modern harley's use a large rubber grommet which is simply an interference fit with the motorcycle oil tank. These are removed by gently grasping and pulling upward.

3. Wipe the dipstick clean using a rag or paper towel.

4. Insert the dipstick back into teh crankcase.

5. Remove the dipstick and hold it vertically with the level mark toward the bottom of the dipstick.

6. If necessary, add motorcycle oil to keep the level between the marks.

Tip:

Most harley models use a large range marked on the dipstick. Be carefule not to overfill. ON many models overfilling will lead to motorcycle oil carryover to the breathers.