How to Change the Oil in a 2019 Suzuki RM85 — MotoSport.com Guide

Shop parts for a 2019 Suzuki RM85 Dirt Bike.

Routine maintenance like changing the oil is fundamental to keeping your 2019 Suzuki RM85 running strong and reliable, whether you're on the track or the trail. This step-by-step MotoSport.com proprietary guide covers the entire oil change process, including detailed instructions, tools required, tips specific to the 2019 RM85, and call-outs to avoid costly mistakes.

Tools & Materials Needed

  • 10mm or 12mm socket and ratchet (to remove drain plug; confirm plug size before starting)
  • Torque wrench (for proper tightening)
  • Measuring cup or graduated oil jug (to measure 550ml precisely)
  • Oil catch pan
  • Shop rags
  • Small funnel
  • Gloves (recommended)
  • New engine/transmission oil: SAE 10W-40, API SG/SH/SJ/SL/SM/SN with JASO MA (MA1/MA2)

Step-by-Step Oil Change Process

  1. Warm Up the Engine
    • Start and run your RM85 for several minutes to bring the oil temperature up. This helps the oil drain out more thoroughly and carries out impurities.
    • Shut off the engine and let the bike sit for about 5 minutes to allow hot parts to cool just enough for safe contact. Take care: Exhaust pipes and oil may remain hot enough to burn you. Always use gloves for added protection. Never drain cold oil–it may leave contaminants behind.
  2. Position the Bike
    • Place the motorcycle on a level surface. Ensure it is upright and held securely–use a stand if possible to keep the bike vertical, not leaning.
  3. Remove the Filler Cap and Oil Drain Plug
    • Locate the oil filler cap on the right side of the engine. Remove it and keep it clean.
    • Place the drain pan underneath the engine's oil pan area and use a socket to carefully loosen and remove the drain plug at the bottom/rear of the engine. Allow all oil to fully drain.
    • Inspect the drain plug's O-ring and threads. Replace the O-ring if damaged or flattened. Clean the plug and area around it with a rag.
    • Call-out for the RM85: The drain plug torque spec is 23 N·m (16.5 lb-ft). Never overtighten, or you may strip the threads in the crankcase. Always start threads by hand.
  4. Reinstall the Drain Plug
    • Once oil has stopped dripping, reinstall the cleaned drain plug and hand-thread it to avoid cross-threading.
    • Finish tightening with a torque wrench set to 23 N·m (16.5 lb-ft).
  5. Fill with New Oil
    • Using a clean measuring cup, pour exactly 550ml (1.2 US pints) of the specified oil into the engine via the filler opening.
    • Use a small funnel to prevent spills.
    • Replace and snug up the filler cap securely (also check the O-ring here–replace if damaged).
  6. Check for Leaks & Verify Oil Level
    • Run the engine for a few minutes to circulate the new oil. Shut it down and wait about 5 minutes.
    • With the bike upright, remove the oil level check screw (usually located low on the right crankcase). The oil should be at the bottom edge of the hole–if it does not drip out, add oil in small increments until it does.
    • Tighten the oil level screw to 5.5 N·m (4.0 lb-ft) and clean up any spills.
  7. Proper Disposal and Final Steps
    • Dispose of old oil at a recycling center or auto parts store. Never pour it down drains or onto the ground.
    • Double-check under the bike to ensure no leaks are present.
    • Record the date and meter/hours for your maintenance log.

2019 Suzuki RM85 Model-Specific Tips

  • Transmission Oil–NOT Premix: The RM85 is a two-stroke. The oil you're changing is for the transmission and clutch only. Ensure you are not confusing transmission oil with the pre-mix two-stroke oil added to your fuel.
  • Frequent Changes: High-RPM, race-oriented minis like the RM85 benefit from more frequent oil changes than mileage alone dictates, especially after track days or muddy/rainy riding.
  • O-Ring Inspection: Always check both the drain plug and filler cap O-rings for cracks or hardening and replace as needed–they prevent oil leaks and contamination.
  • Don't Overfill: Overfilling can result in hard shifting or clutch problems. Measure carefully and check at the level bolt.

Troubleshooting & FAQs

  • If you stripped the drain plug threads: Stop. Do not run the engine. You'll need to get the threads repaired (helicoil or shop fix) before continuing, or risk severe oil leaks.
  • If your oil leaks after changing: Re-check torque specs on both plugs and the condition of O-rings. Even a small nick can cause a leak, especially under pressure.
  • If you're unsure about oil type: Always use SAE 10W-40, JASO MA/MA2-rated oil. Using non-motorcycle or non-JASO oil can cause clutch slippage.

How Often Should You Change the Oil?

While Suzuki recommends every 6000 km for most bikes, the RM85 should have its oil changed much more often, particularly after every weekend of racing or at least every 10 hours of hard riding. More frequent changes equal longer transmission and clutch life.

Keep your 2019 Suzuki RM85 in peak condition and check out MotoSport.com for your oil, tools, and more expert maintenance 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.