How to Change the Oil in a 2015 Suzuki RM85 – Step-by-Step Guide

Shop parts for a 2015 Suzuki RM85 Dirt Bike.

Keeping your 2015 Suzuki RM85 running smooth and strong depends in part on regular oil changes. If you’re ready to tackle this essential maintenance yourself, follow these thorough, model-specific instructions from MotoSport.com to ensure you do the job right every time.

Tools and Materials Needed

  • 10mm and 12mm sockets or wrenches
  • Torque wrench (capable of 5.5 N·m and 23 N·m readings)
  • Oil catch pan
  • Clean rags or paper towels
  • Funnel
  • Measuring cup (metric markings, at least 600 ml)
  • New transmission oil: SAE 10W-40, API SG/SH/SJ/SL/SM/SN with JASO MA/MA1/MA2 (550 ml needed)
  • Gloves (recommended, to keep oil off your hands)
  • OEM oil drain plug washer (optional, but recommended when possible)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Warm up the engine
    • Start your RM85 and let it idle for a few minutes. This thins the oil and helps it drain out more thoroughly.
    • After warming, shut off the engine and allow it to sit for five minutes so hot oil settles in the crankcase (do not skip this step)

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  2. Stabilize the motorcycle
    • Place the motorcycle on a level surface and stand it upright. Use a stand to keep it stable and vertical for both draining and refilling.
  3. Drain the old oil
    • Locate the oil filler cap on the right side cover and the drain plug on the bottom of the engine case beneath the shifter pedal

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    • Put the oil catch pan directly under the drain plug.
    • Remove the filler cap first to allow venting.
    • Using a wrench or socket, remove the oil drain plug. Allow all the oil to drain out. This may take several minutes; tilt the bike slightly if needed, but always return to vertical for final draining.
    • Check the drain plug washer—replace it if damaged to avoid leaks.
  4. Reinstall oil drain plug
    • Once the oil has fully drained, reinstall the oil drain plug and tighten it to 23 N·m (2.3 kgf-m, 16.5 lb-ft) with a torque wrench

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  5. Add new oil
    • Using a funnel and a measuring cup, pour in 550 ml (1.2 US pt, 1.0 Imperial pt) of SAE 10W-40 oil (API SG, SH, SJ, SL, SM, or SN with JASO MA, MA1, or MA2 rating) through the filler hole

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    • Replace the filler cap and tighten it securely by hand.
  6. Check the oil level—Critical for Suzuki RM85
    • Remove the oil level screw (located on the right crankcase, typically below the filler cap)

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    • Hold the bike upright. A small amount of oil should just barely trickle out of the hole. If not, add oil in increments of 20 ml until the correct level is reached. Then, reinstall and tighten the oil level screw: 5.5 N·m (0.55 kgf-m, 4.0 lb-ft).
  7. Clean up
    • Wipe any oil splashes or spills from the engine and work area.
    • Dispose of the used oil responsibly by taking it to a recycling center.
  8. Final check
    • Start the engine and run for a couple minutes. Stop, let it settle five minutes, then re-check the oil level using the oil level screw as outlined above

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    • Check beneath the bike for leaks from the drain plug or oil level screw.

2015 Suzuki RM85 Model-Specific Call-Outs

  • This RM85 uses a transmission-specific oil system separate from the pre-mix/gasoline for the 2-stroke engine. Always use motorcycle transmission oil meeting JASO MA / MA1 / MA2 specs, not automotive engine oil

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  • The oil level screw is vital—do not rely on estimated fill quantities alone, and always check for correct oil flow to avoid underfilling or overfilling (which may cause clutch or transmission issues)

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  • Be gentle when re-threading the drain plug and level screws, as their threads are easily stripped in the lightweight aluminum cases. Always start threads by hand first. Use a torque wrench to prevent overtightening

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  • Oil change interval should be frequent for aggressive or race use—every 5-10 hours of riding or after each race is standard for the RM85’s high-strung 2-stroke transmission.

Conclusion

Changing the oil in your 2015 Suzuki RM85 is a straightforward task that will keep your bike shifting smoothly and performing at its best. Be diligent about measuring oil, using proper torque, and cleaning up. Stay tuned to MotoSport.com for more dirt bike tech tips.

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Disclaimer: This guide is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended to replace your motorcycle's official owner's manual. Always refer to your manufacturer's documentation for model-specific instructions, torque specifications, safety procedures, and maintenance requirements. If you are unsure or inexperienced, consider seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic or technician.