I've owned my 1999 883 for several years. Recently I noticed after riding the bike home from work the strong smell of burnt oil. After closer inspection, I saw oil on my exhaust pipes, drive belt and rear rim/tire. I couldn't find the location of the oil leak. I removed the battery to have better acces to hoses under and around the oil tank, but still couldn't find the source. I was due for an oil change and decided this would be as good as time as any to do it myself instead of spending $70.00 at the dealership. I drained the remaining oil out (about 2-2.25 quarts) and added the new oil (2.75 quarts). Warmed the bike up (on the jiffy stand) and there was no oil leak visible. That weeked took the bike out for 15 minute ride and noticed the oil on exhaust pipes, drive belt and rear tire again. I'm stumped (which doesn't take much). Any ideas?

 

is there a seal behind the drive sprocket? i am not sure, but maybe if there is a seal it failed?

 

Did ya check to see if your air filter is clean? Some times oil flows out of the breather/air filter, especially if you may have over filled during an oil change.

 

This. I bought my bike from a dude who didn't really know much and rode it about 20 miles home. When I got home oil was everywhere. Turns out it was just way too full and was coming out of the breathers/filter and got everywhere. I'm talking from the engine back was all oil, including the back of my helmet and jacket that had been splattered by the wheel flinging it up. That **** gets everywhere! I'm still cleaning it up I think.

 

Thanks for the suggestions. I'm going to check the air filter 1st since that would be the easiest/quickest fix. Any seal failures I would probably have to take to the dealer or local shop.