I rode yesterday for about 200 miles and when I woke up this morning, there were several small to midsize oil leak spots on my garage floor. It was obviously leaking when I was riding, b/c there was oil all over the place on the back of the bike (none in the front of the engine, all from the mid engine back - even on the right side of the back rim). I cleaned the bike off and put a towel under it to pin point any leaks, but so far nothing has dripped. Anyone ever had this problem and how did they trace the source of the leak? I'm having trouble seeing what is going on. I guess what I'm trying to find out is if there is a common spot where the oil could be coming from??? I would love to hear from anyone who has had an issue like this. Thanks.

 

What year? model? It could be anything from brake fluid,primary fluid,engine oil. You could put oil dye in it and run it. Then put a black light on it and possibly find the leak.

 

It is a 2000 Sportster XL 1200 Custom. It is definitely engine oil. The reservoir is missing a good amount of oil. I checked the drain hose but it was tight. It's hard to tell b/c it was leaking when it was running and got all over the bike.

 

How long have you had this bike?
What do you consider "a good amount of oil" to be?
Where are you keeping the oil level on the dipstick?

 

The oil level prior to the leak was just below full. After inspection of the leak, the level was below the dipstick entirely. Is this just a loose connection? I checked the drain tube and there didn't seem to be anything suspect. I spoke to the dealer where I bought it and they agreed to fix it no charge. Nice to see that this particular dealer stands by what they sell. Woodstock, Illinois for those who are looking for a good dealership.