Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Fork and Shock Oil in Your Motorcycle or ATV

Why Fork and Shock Oil Matters

Fork and shock oil keeps your suspension running smoothly. Over time, this oil breaks down from heat and use. Changing it helps your bike or ATV handle better and keeps your suspension working the way it should.

What You'll Need

Before you start, gather these items:

• New fork and shock oil (the right type for your machine)
• A wrench set
• Screwdrivers (both flat and Phillips head)
• A drain pan
• Rags or paper towels
• A socket set
• Jack and jack stands (for safe lifting)
• Measuring cup or syringe (to measure oil amounts)

Getting Ready

Park your motorcycle or ATV on level ground. Use a jack and jack stands to lift the front wheel off the ground safely. Make sure everything is secure before you work underneath it.

Let the suspension cool if you've been riding. Hot oil can burn you.

Draining the Old Oil

Locate the drain bolt at the bottom of each fork leg. Place your drain pan underneath. Use your wrench to loosen and remove the bolt. Let the old oil drain completely into the pan—this may take a few minutes.

Once the oil stops dripping, wipe the drain bolt clean with a rag. Check the bolt for damage before you put it back in.

Cleaning the Fork Tubes

While the forks are empty, you can clean the inside. Pour a small amount of new oil into each fork leg and work it around. This removes old debris and leftover oil. Drain this out completely.

Wipe the inside walls of the fork tubes with a clean rag if you can reach them.

Refilling with New Oil

Check your motorcycle or ATV manual to find out how much oil each fork leg needs. This amount matters—too much or too little changes how your suspension feels.

Use a measuring cup or syringe to pour the correct amount of new oil into each fork leg. Pour slowly and carefully. Reinstall the drain bolt and tighten it snugly with your wrench. Don't overtighten.

Doing the Shock Oil

The shock absorber process is similar. Locate the drain bolt on your shock (usually at the bottom). Place your drain pan underneath and remove the bolt. Let old oil drain fully.

Measure the correct amount of new oil from your manual. Pour it in slowly. Reinstall and tighten the drain bolt.

Testing Your Work

Lower your motorcycle or ATV back down carefully. Remove the jack stands only after the weight is fully on the ground.

Compress the forks and shock a few times by hand. They should move smoothly without feeling stiff or sluggish. Take a short, slow test ride in a safe area to make sure everything feels right.

Disposing of Old Oil

Never pour used oil down a drain or into the ground. Take it to a recycling center, auto parts store, or service station. Many places will take it for free.

When to Do This Job

Most riders change fork and shock oil once a year or every 10,000 miles, whichever comes first. If you ride in dusty or wet conditions, you may need to do it more often. Check your owner's manual for the schedule that fits your machine.