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Motorcycle Oil Coolers

Motorcycle overheating is no joke. When your bike gets too hot, it results in a loss of power, scorched legs and potentially severe engine damage. Riding is at its best when you’re out on the open road at cruising speeds with plenty of air to cool your engine. But you can’t always avoid stop-and-go traffic and the slow speeds of parades. With air-cooled engines, there are two ways for the engine to be cooled. Fresh airflow and the circulation of the oil through the engine. While the oil circulates through the engine, it moves the heat away from the hottest parts of the engine to cooler areas where it can be cooled. But if the air isn’t moving, all of the engine remains hot. The fix is adding an oil cooler to your motorcycle.

Motorcycle oil coolers can rapidly and consistently cool the engine oil, even when your bike is at a dead stop on the hottest of days. A good oil cooler not only significantly lowers the temperature of the oil, but also keeps a consistent flow and oil pressure. The consistent oil pressure is important to keep the engine fully lubricated and to prevent loss of power. Coolers work by routing the engine oil through the filter into the unit and through a heat exchanger, which is cooled by a powerful fan(s) and then back to the engine.

At Dennis Kirk, you will find a great selection of motorcycle oil coolers and for the lowest guaranteed prices. We keep many in stock and ready to ship to you the same day that you order them. That way, you can get back out on the road and riding cool as soon as possible. And when your order is over $89, we will ship it to you for free. Use the ride selector at the top of the page to find all of the parts that fit your specific machine. Also, feel free to contact our knowledgeable Tech Team if you have questions on which oil cooler is best for your motorcycle and riding style.

FAQs on Motorcycle Oil Cooler

What does an oil cooler do on a motorcycle?

An oil cooler lowers the temperature of engine oil to prevent overheating. Cooler oil maintains consistent lubrication, extending engine life. It improves motorcycle performance by keeping oil viscosity stable under stress. Oil coolers are especially useful in hot weather or for high-performance riding. They reduce engine wear and improve long-term reliability.

Which is better, air-cooled or oil-cooled motorcycle engines?

Oil-cooled motorcycles offer better engine temperature control and longer life under demanding conditions. Air-cooled engines are simpler, lighter, and easier to maintain. Oil cooling adds complexity but enhances performance in hot climates and heavy-load riding. The choice depends on your motorcycle use and riding style. Many riders choose oil cooling for touring and performance bikes.

Do oil coolers work on Harleys?

Yes, many Harley-Davidson models benefit from oil coolers by regulating engine temperature and maintain oil viscosity. They are common on touring and larger-displacement models. Oil coolers help prevent overheating in stop-and-go traffic. They improve longevity and performance. Aftermarket options make installation easy for most Harley models.

How hot do air-cooled motorcycle engines get?

Air-cooled motorcycle engines can reach between 300°F and 500°F (150°C to 260°C) under heavy load. Heat depends on riding conditions, ambient temperature, and engine size. Long idling or heavy traffic increases temperatures. Air-cooled engines run hotter than liquid or oil-cooled engines without additional cooling. Regular maintenance is key to managing heat effectively.

Why do people like air-cooled motorcycles?

Air-cooled motorcycles are valued for simplicity, lighter weight, and classic style. They require less maintenance since they don’t have a liquid cooling system. Riders enjoy the mechanical feel, distinctive sound, and unique character. They also have a strong nostalgic appeal. Many enthusiasts prefer air-cooled bikes for their charm and timeless design.