An accurate engine oil level reading can only be obtained with the engine at normal operating temperature (hot check). The engine will require a longer warm up period in colder temperatures.
For preride inspection, simply verify that there are no oil leaks from the oil filter cover or oil lines prior to operating the motorcycle.
NOTE
Perform a hot check of the engine oil level at each fuel stop.
NOTICE
Do not allow oil level to fall below MIN mark on dipstick or sight gauge. Doing so can result in equipment damage and/or equipment malfunction. (00573d)
NOTICE
Do not overfill oil. Doing so can result in oil carryover to the air cleaner leading to equipment damage and/or equipment malfunction. (00190b)
NOTICE
Do not switch lubricant brands indiscriminately because some lubricants interact chemically when mixed. Use of inferior lubricants can damage the engine. (00184a)
  1. Ride motorcycle for approximately 10 minutes. Ride at least 8 km (5 mi) to ensure the oil is hot and the engine is at normal operating temperature. Readings taken with colder oil could lead to an overfull engine condition.
  2. Place motorcycle on its sidestand on firm level ground. An uneven surface will produce a false oil reading.
  3. Idle the motorcycle for three minutes on its sidestand. Shut off the motorcycle.
  4. Wait for two minutes after shutdown before reading the oil level, or false readings may result.
  5. See Figure 1. Unscrew and remove dipstick from oil filler hole. Wipe dipstick clean.
  6. Insert dipstick into oil filler hole, screwing dipstick in completely.
    7. NOTE
    Refer to Maintenance and Lubrication → Engine Lubrication: Buell 1125R Models → Recommended Engine Oils. Use only recommended oil specified in Maintenance and Lubrication → Engine Lubrication: Buell 1125R Models.
  7. See Figure 2. Unscrew and remove dipstick and note oil level. An indicated oil level between MIN and MAX (measured after performing steps 1 through 6) is acceptable for safe engine operation. Oil should be added in 0.1–0.2 L (3–7 fl oz) increments, depending on how far the level is from the MAX reading. Confirm oil level by repeating steps 1 through 7.
    8. NOTE
    If the oil level is at (or above) the OVERFULL mark, drain oil at 0.2 L (6.8 fl oz) increments until the oil level is between the MIN and MAX marks on the dipstick. Repeat steps 1 though 7 to confirm proper level.
  8. Hand tighten dipstick into oil filler hole.
Figure 1. Filler Plug/Dipstick Location: Buell 1125R Models
1Minimum (MIN) hot oil level
2Maximum (MAX) hot oil level
3Graduation marks, 3.4 fl. oz. (0.1 L) increments
4OVERFULL mark
Figure 2. Oil Dipstick Proper Operating Range: Buell 1125R Models