What Are the Consequences of Not Changing Motorcycle Gear Oil?
2 Answers
The consequences of not changing motorcycle gear oil include accelerated wear of the gears inside the rear gearbox, and in severe cases, damage to the rear axle bearings. Below are detailed explanations: Symptoms: Specific symptoms range from slight abnormal noises developing into severe abnormal noises, accompanied by rear wheel wobbling when braking (rear brake). Not changing the gear oil significantly affects the safety of motorcycle use, so it is necessary to change the gear oil on time. Others: Motorcycles have a separate rear gearbox. If the gear oil inside the gearbox is not changed or symptoms of insufficient gear oil appear, it will accelerate the wear of the gears inside the rear gearbox.
As a seasoned motorcyclist with over a decade of riding experience, I've witnessed the consequences when friends neglect gear oil changes. Initially, there might be no noticeable issues, but prolonged delays lead to problems. Insufficient lubrication increases gear friction, resulting in louder noises and rough gear shifting. Over time, severe surface scratches on the gears can occur. The most alarming incident was last year when my colleague's transmission suddenly locked up on the highway, nearly causing an accident. Deteriorated oil can also corrode seals, leading to oil leaks or even spontaneous combustion. I recommend changing the oil every 5,000 kilometers as per the manual—don't skimp on this small expense; safety comes first. While changing oil is simple, ignoring it can trigger a chain reaction. A major transmission overhaul costs thousands, which isn't worth it. Developing good habits ensures your beloved bike stays with you longer.
