I know responses will vary but what is the most optimal mileage for oil changes? every 2k? every 3k?

I have a 1993, that has just overabout 3600miles and the oil was changed at 1499 miles so I am wondering any and all thoughts?

 

I change mine once a month (during riding season) whether it needs it or not. Since it's easy to get 1000 miles in a weekend it's cheap insurance man. If you don't ride much... every 2-3000 miles should be just fine although harley says 5000 miles. Personally in an air-cooled engine that depends on oilfor cooling as well I'd feelsafer doing it a bit more often. Again, cheap insurance.

 

It depends on several factors:

1. How many miles a week do you ride in riding season (if you have a riding season)?
2. Under what ambient temperatures do you ride the most?
3. How hard do you ride?
4. Is your bike kept inside or outside (condensation issues)?
5. On average, are your rides short (under 1 hour at a time) or longer?
6. Do you use dino or synth oils?
7. Do you ride on any dirt roads?

These and other factors come in to play, so I could not suggest a frequency for changing oil for you specifically. You know the answers to these questions best and can determine what answers should dictate the frequency of your oil changes and AC cleaning/filter replacement.

 

HD says 5000 miles but I do mine every 3000. In your case, given the age & mileage on the bike, mileage is not the important factor, time is. The oil should be changed every year regardless of mileage.