Engine oil

[Frankie O]

I’ve haven’t long had my 22 plate Chief Dark Horse. I bought it with about 700 miles on having not long had its 500 mile service. I’ve added about a 1000 miles to it and just checked the oil (with engine hot) only to find its way below the ‘add oil’ marker. I’d like to assume at that at the 500 service it was filled with the correct amount of oil as it doesn’t smoke and it’s not leaking! Has anyone else come across this situation or would it be reasonable to assume ut wasn’t filled up properly ?
…also having trouble finding oil for it. Can anyone recommend a suitable alternative to the really expensive Indian brand… TIA

 

[careless-purple]

Yep, sometimes these bikes can be tricky when it comes to oil readings! Is it leaking? If not then it's possible that it was filled right and what you're seeing is like a glitch only.

As for oil, try checking out Motul 7100 20W-40 or Amsoil V-Twin 20W-40 as alternatives. Just make sure it meets the specs in your manual. Ride safe!

 

[lonelymafia]

Sounds like it either wasn't topped off properly at the 500-mile service or burned a bit during break-in, which isnt unusual. If there's no smoke or leaks, it's likely just low from the start. For oil, you don't need to stick with the expensive Indian brand. Motul or Liqui Moly 15W-60 full synthetic works great and wont cost you too much. Just make sure it meets the right spec (JASO MA2) and you should be alrgith.

 

[Daisy Rocks]

I've haven't long had my 22 plate Chief Dark Horse. I bought it with about 700 miles on having not long had its 500 mile service. I've added about a 1000 miles to it and just checked the oil (with engine hot) only to find its way below the 'add oil' marker. I'd like to assume at that at the 500 service it was filled with the correct amount of oil as it doesn't smoke and it's not leaking! Has anyone else come across this situation or would it be reasonable to assume ut wasn't filled up properly ?
…also having trouble finding oil for it. Can anyone recommend a suitable alternative to the really expensive Indian brand… TIA

Dealership oil changes can't be trusted, half the time they don't even top it off right. Your situation sounds like classic underfill, and as for oil, skip the overpriced Indian brand, Amsoil or Motul synthetic will work just fine.