View Full Version : Checking oil level made easier
BIKE12
08-20-2011, 01:40 PM
I have always found that checking the oil level with a sight glass is unreliable and a pain.
In order to be sure my bike is level when I check the oil level I have been placing a small level on the seat.
On a recent visit to the local hardware store I spotted line levels and bought the smallest one they had.
I mounted the line level right on the motor housing using a silicone caulk.
The line level has been in place for one month of daily riding.
Checking the oil level is much easier now.
Gz Rider
08-20-2011, 01:50 PM
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BIKE12
08-20-2011, 02:03 PM
Before placing the line level in it's final spot I made sure the bike was level by verifying with a second level.
Not sure about the heat. My daily commute is only seven miles. If the adhesive fails I will find a high temperature silicone adhesive and try again.
alantf
08-20-2011, 02:40 PM
Overkill? :??:
5th_bike
08-20-2011, 03:26 PM
Some people need more decimal digits for pi (3.14...) then just 2.
I like the idea though. Just a little worried about UV resistance of the plastic, and crud collecting in the corners.
I'd put it under the saddle, in the box.
How about a little circular one with a ring in the middle for the bubble ("Bull's Eye level"), because this level will not tell you when the bike is on a slope.
Water Warrior 2
08-20-2011, 05:57 PM
There is a certain amount of leeway built into the sight glass. As long as the bike is vertical and the oil is close to full or on full you are good to go. I wouldn't get to excited about being on a slope of a few degrees. I rocked the Vstrom on it's center stand and saw no real change in the oil level. I would think the GZ would have similar results if it had a CS. That said, I do check oil level before every ride.
alantf
08-21-2011, 05:54 AM
I do check oil level before every ride.
So do I, but with the geezer it's sufficient to grab the handlebar & pull the bike upright momentarily. If the oil shoots up the sightglass as you do this, you're good to go.I really don't think it's rocket science, & I stand by my "overkill" remark regarding the spirit level. :2tup:
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