I just changed my oil to Mobil V twin 20-50. Engine was warm, and it drained fully. I added 3 quarts, ran it for a minute, it went up to 32. I shut down and checked level, and added 1/2 quart.
Today after riding 20 minutes I checked level, but the whole dipstick seems to have oil on it after wiping off and reinserting. Do you have to let the oil settle a few minutes?
When I checked it an hour later it is right where it should be for a cold engine, and easy to read. Why can't I check it cold? Seems a lot easier.

 

I normally check it cold

 

Hot, 5-10 minutes after stopping the engine.

 

I've done it both ways. But I usually check it before I ride, so it's usually cold.

 

Both. No difference.

 

Thats how i check too

 

I have checked both ways and makes no difference. I usually do it before a ride so it is cold.

 

I don't' like burning my hand on the exhaust.
Cold don't burn me.

 

My service manual specifies hot, with the bike on the jiffy stand.

 

After a ride I let it idle for 1-2 min (per manual) before shutting it down then check it. On a cold check I wouldn't add any oil unless its below the mid range point on the stick. 96B motors with the external oil tank may be different?

What do you mean by "it went up to 32"