Motorcycle Oil Cooling Systems

There is no secret that a motorcycle's engine generates tremendous amounts of heat, and there are two main ways to cool it – with oncoming air or liquid. Meanwhile, there is the third substance which greatly contributes to reducing the motor's temperature in both of these cases – motor oil. Yet, it's prone to overheating at high revs, which is fraught with losing viscosity, lubricating ability, and sad consequences for the engine. Liquid cooling would solve the problem, but it has certain drawbacks such as a heavier weight, larger size, and higher cost.

There is an alternative solution for air-cooled bikes – the oil cooling system. Consisting of a small oil radiator and lines connecting it to the motor, it allows oil to work within an acceptable temperature range, retain its useful qualities for a longer period, and provide extra cooling for the cylinder head. Reduced friction, smooth engine operation, and longer, trouble-free engine lifespan belong to the main benefits of such a system. For higher efficiency, the radiator is usually placed behind the front wheel and can be equipped with a fan in some configurations.

To tell the truth, all these measures are insufficient for extreme racing dominated by super-powerful liquid-cooled motorcycles, but if your bike is not pushed to the limit on the track, the system is a very nice solution. Some Japanese and Korean motorcycle manufacturers install it in some models at the factory, while the modern aftermarket offers various kits allowing you to upgrade your two-wheeler. Such a kit can be installed in a relatively easy manner on cruisers outfitted with a V-twin, adventure tourers, entry-level sport bikes, etc. Usually, a quality kit includes a radiator, hoses, fittings, wires, and some other parts along with all the needed hardware. Our online store also offers such equipment crafted with quality in mind by reputable companies – UltraCool, Jagg, and others.