RX3 Lubrication System: Checking the Engine Oil Level

[SpudRider]

The lubrication system of the NC250 (ZS177MM) engine in the Zongshen RX3 is designed similarly to the lubrication system of my Honda XR650L. Both systems use a dual chamber oil pump, which has an elevated oil reservoir. The Honda stores much of its engine oil in a reservoir located at the top of the bike's frame, behind the triple tree. The Zongshen stores much of its engine oil in a 'gearbox' reservoir, located behind the bike's clutch cover. The Honda has an oil dipstick located at the elevated reservoir, and the Zongshen has an sight glass located at the elevated reservoir. The level of oil in the elevated reservoir is not constant for either motorcycle, so both bikes require you to follow a specific procedure to make sure you measure the oil level properly.

In this thread I will first describe the design of the Honda lubrication system, then I will describe the similar design of the Zongshen lubrication system. Finally, I will describe the proper method to check the oil level, which is almost identical for both bikes, since the lubrication systems are designed so similarly.