I have an 09 Ultra and am approaching 500 miles. My dealer told me that it is a very good idea to change the oil after the first 500 miles........even though the manual calls for the first oil change at 1,000 miles. So, change oil at 500 and again at 1,000??????? Really?

 

My dealer told me to change it at 1000 as it was not needed at 500.

 

Yes, there is a lot of crud coming from your break-in. Personally I change at 100 miles and 500 miles, but that is just me.

Beary

 

I changed oil @ 160 and again at 500 & 1,000. Then every 2,500. Just one of the things I like about owning a Harley is that it allows me to explore and experience the full range of my obsessive-compulsive disorder.
I think S&S recommends 100/500/1000 or something like that.

 

I use to change my oil at every 2500 after doing it at 1000, but now I am doing sythetic changes at 5000. I dont notice a difference, but some will swear by it. You could change oil after every ride, I guess. 1000 is safe. Look at the oil then.

 

These engines don't need it. Closer tolerances, better manufacturing etc. That said, I still changed mine out at 500. Guess what, no metal or sludge at all... kinda a waste. Use your own judgement.

lp

 

I changed to full Synth-etic (Red Line brand) in the crankcase, tranny and primary at 500 miles and will change it more often then the book says to do it. That is cheap protection and a smart investment in your motor if you ask me. I also added an Oil cooler too before doing the first change. I also replaced all the torx screws on the cover with grade 8 allen heads at the same time, even though the stock torx were already grade 8. I'll also switch to K&N Oil Filters next time around with the "hex bolt" bottoms to them. (What a P.I.A. to remove the stock chromed filter)

Very little contamination or metal chips at that first change.

 

You're good till the 1000 mile mark. No need to change very 500 miles unless you're out there setting land speed records in between oil changes. Just follow the manual, I do nad my bike is running great with no problems.

 

I'm **** but I changed all three holes at 50 and 500 and 1000, and took the primary cover off each time to get any little metal pieces . Thereafter every 2500 miles. As long as you do it yourself it does not cost much, and it gives me peace of mind. Some buy extended warranties because it makes them feel better, I practice **** maintenance. I go over the whole bike, all the time, tire pressures, check torque on all critical fasteners, etc. But I like to do it, I do the same thing with my cars and equipment at work, all I can say is that maintenance is a lot cheaper than repair. Peace.

 

Yes, but the engine is still breaking in and that means lots of little metal thingys swimming around them other parts. Plus the oil it taking a beating from the cylinder combustion before the rings seat. So I personally think a 500 mile change is minimum.

I have heard that Harleys use a higher tolerance filter (5 microns?) and that will help clean the oil a lot.

Beary