Dirt biking is one of the coolest and most adventurous outdoor activities for bike enthusiasts. But, amidst the thrill of hitting the trails, you need to ensure that your dirt bike is cooler than ever- literally! Overheating can be a nightmare, and the best way to prevent it from happening is by using the right coolant. So, in this blog post, we’ll look at the best types of coolant to use in a dirt bike and why they’re worth considering.
1. Propylene Glycol:
Propylene Glycol is a popular and efficient coolant for dirt bikes. Unlike others that are widely used for cars, its unique qualities make it perfect for motorsport applications. Propylene Glycol is an ethylene glycol substitute that’s less toxic and has a higher boiling point. This means it won’t evaporate quickly and will remain stable at high temperatures. Its lubricating properties will also prevent rust and corrosion while protecting the engine’s internal components.
2. Ethylene Glycol:
Ethylene Glycol is also a popular option for dirt bike coolant. It’s mainly used in automotive engines and provides adequate protection against rust, corrosion and overheating. Ethylene Glycol has a higher boiling point than water and has been shown to be more effective than Propylene Glycol at transferring heat away from the engine. However, it’s considered more toxic than Propylene Glycol, but it’s available in different colors to distinguish it from other liquids.
3. Waterless Engine Coolants:
Waterless Engine Coolants are emerging as one of the most popular coolant types for dirt bikes over the past few years. They’re composed of a unique blend of glycols, which includes Propylene Glycol and additives such as corrosion inhibitors, surfactants, and heat transfer enhancers. They offer better cooling and much higher boiling points than conventional coolants. Additionally, they’re resistant to corrosion and other kinds of accelerated wear that may damage vital engine parts.
4. Silicon-Based Engine Coolants:
Silicon-Based Engine Coolants are also ideal for dirt bikes because they don’t contain water as their main ingredient. They offer improved heat transfer abilities, highly resistant to corrosion and silicate gel formation, which is common with using standard engine coolants. Silicon-Based Engine Coolants come in different colors and offer excellent protection against overheating as well.
5. Concentrate and Pre-Mix Coolants:
Concentrate and Pre-Mix Coolants offer an ideal coolant solution for riders looking for customized motorcycle coolant. Pre-mix coolants already come mixed and can be used without diluting with water, while the concentrate-type coolants need to be mixed with water. They offer different combinations of antifreeze, rust inhibitors, and cooling agents to suit specific climates and operating conditions.
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The Best Dirt Bike Antifreeze/Coolant Options Available
For dirt bikers, ensuring that their bikes are at optimal performance is a top priority. A crucial aspect of this is selecting the right antifreeze/coolant for their bike engines. There are several options available in the market, making it challenging to narrow down the best one to use. In this blog post, we will review two of the best dirt bike antifreeze/coolant options available – Engine Ice and Evans Coolant – and provide you with all the information you need to make the right choice for your bike.
Engine Ice
Engine Ice is a popular coolant option among dirt bike enthusiasts as it offers excellent heat transfer capabilities, reducing the engine’s operating temperature by up to 20 degrees Fahrenheit. This drop in temperature makes Engine Ice ideal for use in hot climates or for bikes that run hot. It also improves engine performance by ensuring less friction and wear and can extend the bike’s lifespan.
Engine Ice is sold in a pre-mixed form, reducing the risk of using too much water, which can dilute the solution, and too little water, which can result in overheating. It also has freeze protection down to -26 degrees Fahrenheit, which makes it perfect for those who live in colder climates.
Evans Coolant
Evans Coolant is another popular option, especially for dirt bikers who ride in extreme weather conditions. Unlike traditional coolants which have water bases, Evans uses a proprietary waterless formula that boasts several benefits. Firstly, it significantly reduces the risk of engine overheating, even in extreme conditions. Secondly, it has a boiling point of 375 degrees Fahrenheit, which means that it remains stable even at high temperatures. Thirdly, it eliminates corrosion, erosion, and electrolysis, which results in longer engine life.
Evans coolants are also sold pre-mixed with deionized water, which ensures that the correct ratio of water and coolant is maintained. However, it is essential to note that switching from a traditional coolant to Evans requires a complete flush of the cooling system.
Maxima 82964 Coolanol
This antifreeze/coolant is specifically designed for high-performance engines like those found in dirt bikes. It’s a blend of propylene glycol and deionized water that provides excellent heat transfer and corrosion protection. Coolanol is also phosphate and nitrate-free, making it more environmentally friendly than other options. Plus, it’s compatible with most metals and elastomers commonly used in dirt bike engines.
Zerex Original Green
Zerex Original Green is an ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant designed for both aluminum and copper-brass radiators. It offers excellent protection against rust, corrosion, and cavitation erosion, which can damage the engine over time. It’s also compatible with most seals, gaskets, and hoses used in dirt bike engines. The only downside is that it’s toxic and should be handled with care.
Honda Genuine COOLANT (Type-2)
If you have a Honda dirt bike, then the Honda Genuine COOLANT (Type-2) is an excellent option. This antifreeze/coolant is specifically designed for Honda engines and provides superior heat transfer and protection against corrosion and cavitation erosion. It’s a blend of ethylene glycol and deionized water that’s pre-mixed and ready to use. Plus, it’s non-toxic, making it safer to handle and dispose of.
Honda 08C50-C321S02 Coolant Ready to Use
Honda is known for producing high-quality dirt bikes and their coolant is a great option for dirt bike owners. It’s formulated to provide corrosion protection for all cooling system metals, including aluminum and magnesium. It’s also ready to use straight out of the bottle, so there’s no need to mix it with water. The Honda 08C50-C321S02 coolant is suitable for all Honda dirt bikes, but it’s also compatible with other brands like Kawasaki, Yamaha, and Suzuki. It’s a bit pricey, but it’s worth it for its excellent performance and reliability.
Best Dirt Bike Antifreeze for Cold Climates
If you plan on riding in colder temperatures, it’s essential to choose an antifreeze that can withstand freezing temperatures. The Engine Ice Hi-Performance Coolant is a great option for dirt bikers who frequently ride in cold weather. It’s a premixed formula that’s ready to use and provides excellent heat-transfer capabilities. It has a boiling point of 256 degrees Fahrenheit and a freezing point of -26 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s a bit more expensive than other options, but it’s worth the investment for those living in colder climates.
Best Dirt Bike Coolant for Hot Climates
Dirt bike riders know how hot it can get under the sun, and this increases the risk of overheating. Choosing the best coolant that can withstand high temperatures and protect your engine from damage is crucial. One of the best options for hot climates is engine ice. Engine ice is a biodegradable propylene glycol that can lower your bike’s engine temperature by up to 10 degrees. This coolant can prolong your engine’s life by reducing internal corrosion, which will save you money on repairs.
Another good option is Maxima Coolanol. This ethylene glycol-based coolant has a high boiling point and can withstand high temperatures. It’s perfect for dirt bikes used for off-road racing and heavy-duty riding. It has anti-corrosion components that can protect your engine for up to two years.
Best Coolant for a 2 Stroke Dirt Bike
It is recommended that you use a standard coolant like the Engine Ice Hi-Performance Coolant for your 2 stroke dirt bike. This coolant is known for its high heat transfer capacity, which helps to remove heat from the engine and keep it cool. One of the benefits of Engine Ice is that it can prevent your engine from boiling over, which can damage the engine permanently. Another great feature of Engine Ice’s Hi-Performance coolant is that it can lead to better fuel consumption, meaning more time on the track or trail.
Best Coolant for a 4 Stroke Dirt Bike
If you require a coolant for your 4 stroke dirt bike, try Maxima Coolanol 50/50 Blend. Coolanol is a top-rated coolant and antifreeze used by professional motocross and off-road riders worldwide. It has a high boiling point that ensures the engine remains cool, even in the hottest conditions. The 50/50 Blend is supplied premixed, and it comes with ethylene glycol, which helps to get rid of dirt and scale to prevent clogging. Furthermore, this coolant can protect the engine from corrosion and damage, ensuring that your engine runs at its best.
Using Car Antifreeze in a Dirt Bike
As a biker, you understand the importance of keeping your dirt bike in top shape. One of the critical maintenance tasks is ensuring your bike’s engine stays cool, especially during those hot summer rides. That’s why you’re here, considering using car antifreeze in your dirt bike. It may seem like a good idea, but is it safe, effective, or even recommended? This blog post answers those questions and more.
1. What is antifreeze, and why is it essential for your dirt bike?
Antifreeze is a liquid added to the engine’s cooling system to lower the freezing point and raise the boiling point of the coolant mixture to protect the engine from overheating or freezing. It also contains corrosion inhibitors that prevent rust and scale buildup in the cooling system and lubricate the water pump. Using the wrong type of antifreeze can cause leaks, engine damage, and even failure, which is why it’s crucial to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for your dirt bike.
2. Can you use car antifreeze in a dirt bike?
Whether you can use car antifreeze in your dirt bike depends on the type of antifreeze and the dirt bike’s specifications. Car antifreeze is usually designed for automobile engines that have different cooling system capacity, pressure, and materials than dirt bikes. They may contain additives or inhibitors that are not suitable for dirt bike engines or may cause issues such as foaming, overheating, or poor performance. Therefore, it’s not recommended to use car antifreeze in a dirt bike unless explicitly stated by the manufacturer or a mechanic.
3. What are the alternatives to car antifreeze for dirt bikes?
If you cannot use car antifreeze in your dirt bike, there are other options to consider. Firstly, you can use pre-mixed or concentrated engine coolants that meet or exceed the specifications of your dirt bike’s manual. These engine coolants are specially formulated for dirt bikes and offer better protection against corrosion, foaming, and performance issues. Secondly, you can use distilled water with water-wetter or other cooling system enhancers to improve heat transfer and reduce engine temperatures. However, using distilled water alone is not recommended as it can cause corrosion and rust.
4. How to check and refill your dirt bike’s coolant system?
Checking and refilling your dirt bike’s coolant system is a simple task that you can do at home with the following steps:
– Make sure your dirt bike is cold and on a level surface.
– Locate the coolant reservoir or radiator cap and remove it.
– Check the coolant level and color. If it’s low or discolored, drain and replace the coolant mixture following the manufacturer’s instructions.
– Refill the reservoir or radiator with the recommended coolant mixture or distilled water if applicable.
– Replace the cap and start the engine. Let it run for a few minutes and check for leaks or overheating.
– Repeat the process until the coolant level stabilizes.
5. Why is maintaining your dirt bike’s coolant system important?
Maintaining your dirt bike’s coolant system is crucial for prolonging your engine’s life, preventing breakdowns, and ensuring safe and comfortable rides. Neglecting the coolant system can cause overheating, leaks, engine damage, and even accidents. Therefore, it’s essential to check and refill your dirt bike’s coolant system regularly, especially before the riding season or after extreme weather conditions.
Using car antifreeze in your dirt bike may sound like a good idea, but it’s not always safe, effective, or recommended. Many factors, such as the type of antifreeze, the dirt bike’s specifications, and the manufacturer’s recommendations, should be considered before making any decisions. If you’re unsure, it’s best to consult a mechanic or follow the manual’s instructions for your dirt bike’s coolant system. By doing so, you can ensure your dirt bike’s engine stays cool, and you can enjoy many safe and thrilling rides ahead.
Take a look at this Pre-ride Inspection Checklist. Also, while you’re trying to change your coolant, check on How to clean your Dirt Bike Air Filter.
Where to Get Coolant for Your Dirt Bike
Coolant is a crucial element for the longevity of your dirt bike. It helps maintain and regulate the temperature of the engine and prevents overheating while you ride. By keeping the engine cool, the oil is not compromised, and your dirt bike continues to perform as it should. However, when the coolant levels are low, you need to replace them. Finding the right coolant for your dirt bike can be overwhelming. You must use the correct type of coolant that matches your bike’s needs. In this blog post, we will discuss where to get the right coolant for your dirt bike.
1. Online Retailers
Going to an online retailer is one of the most convenient ways to purchase coolant because you do not need to leave your home. Online retailers provide you with an array of options, and you can compare the prices and types to make the right choice. Some popular online retailers you can consider for getting your coolant include Amazon, RevZilla, and Rocky Mountain ATV.
2. Dealerships
When it comes to buying coolant, it’s hard to go wrong with a dealership. They have a wide range of products that match the needs of your dirt bike. They will provide you with the perfect type of coolant to ensure your dirt bike runs as it should. It can be a bit expensive to buy from a dealership, but you are always sure that you are getting the right product. Furthermore, they also provide installation services.
3. Auto Parts Stores
Head over to an auto parts store if you are looking to get coolant for your dirt bike. They will have an array of options ranging from different brands, types, and prices. Auto parts stores like NAPA and O’Reilly provide you with choices that match the needs of your dirt bike. Furthermore, they provide you with the added advantage of getting knowledgeable assistance from their staff, who can guide you on the best choices.
4. Motorcycle Supply Stores
Motorcycle supply stores are an excellent choice when you’re looking for niche products that are specifically designed for your dirt bike. They have a wide array of coolant brands and types that cater to the requirements of your bike. They also sell a selection of other dirt bike-related items and have knowledgeable staff that can help you make the right choice of coolant for your bike.
5. Online classified ads
Lastly, you can check out online classified ads. These ads are a great source of dirt bike parts, and you can quickly pick up coolant if you’re on a budget. You might have to do a bit of research to make sure you’re getting a genuine product, but you just might find someone selling an unopened coolant bottle for a lower price. Just ensure that the product has not expired or been tampered with.
Your dirt bike is an investment, and proper upkeep and maintenance are essential in ensuring that it performs well. Coolant is a crucial element in maintaining the longevity of your dirt bike engine. You can purchase it conveniently from online retailers, dealerships, auto parts stores, motorcycle supply stores or online classified ads. Be sure to choose a coolant that matches the requirements of your bike and make it a habit to regularly check the coolant levels of your dirt bike to ensure the safety of your ride.
How to Change Dirt Bike Coolant
Maintaining your dirt bike is essential to ensure that it is always in tip-top condition. One of the critical maintenance tasks is changing the coolant. Your bike’s engine is a complex mechanical system, and overheating can cause severe damage. A change in coolant is necessary to ensure that your dirt bike engine stays healthy and running efficiently. This guide will give you a step-by-step process on how to change your dirt bike’s coolant.
The first step in changing your dirt bike coolant is to locate the drain bolt. If you are not sure where this is located on your bike, refer to the owner’s manual. Place a coolant collection pan beneath the drain bolt to catch the old coolant. Once the pan is in place, loosen the drain bolt, making sure that it doesn’t come loose completely. Allow the old coolant to drain fully.
With the old coolant now out of the system, it’s time to remove the radiator cap. Removing the cap helps to release any pressure built up in the system. After the pressure drops, you can now flush the cooling system with fresh water. You can either flush it with a hosepipe or fill the system with clean water, run the bike for a few minutes, and then drain it. Repeat this process a few times until the water comes out clear.
Once you have flushed the system with water, it’s time to refill the radiator with fresh coolant. First, refer to the owner’s manual to find out the type of coolant recommended for your dirt bike. Use only the recommended type of coolant and make sure that the coolant ratio is correct. Fill the radiator to the recommended level, and squeeze the upper and lower radiator hoses to get rid of any air bubbles.
After filling the radiator with coolant and squeezing the hose, replace the radiator cap. Run the bike for a few minutes to check for any leaks. After that, turn off the bike, let it cool down, and check the coolant level. If it’s too low, add some more coolant until it reaches the recommended level.
Final Thoughts
Changing your dirt bike coolant is a simple task that anyone can do. Following the proper steps, you can do it yourself and save money on bike servicing fees. With this guide, you now have a detailed step-by-step process that you can follow to change your bike’s coolant. Remember, keeping your engine cool and properly maintained is vital for its longevity and optimal performance. Make sure to do the coolant change as per the manufacturer’s recommendation, usually every two to three years. Happy riding!
