8 Best Motorcycle Oil Filters: Reviews For Harleys & More

The motorcycle oil filter removes contaminants from the engine. With the best motorcycle oil filter, you ensure maximum protection of the engine. Our best motorcycle oil filter reviews provide the top choices for you to consider.

How Motorcycle Oil Filters Work & Their Benefits

The motorcycle oil filter is comparable to the car filter in many ways. Both will have an anti-drain back valve, along with a safety release valve and similar designs. However, the car oil filter is often cheaper. Additionally, the construction will be quite different to accommodate the proper filtration. Most car filters include cellulose or glass-fiber constructions, while the bike oil filter is going to be made from paper or plastic. Either way, both oil filters work to remove contaminants from the oil before they reach the engine.

Buying Motorcycle Oil Filters – Determining The Right Choice

Performance

Not all oil filters are going to perform the same. You want to evaluate the performance level to ensure you get the protection against contaminants you want. Sure, you can purchase a cheap motorcycle oil filter, but it might not provide the same level of removal that a higher-end model would.

Filter Media

Paper has a long history of being used in oil filters and is often cheaper than the plastic counterparts. However, synthetic plastics do a better job of trapping those smaller contaminants and last longer. Therefore, you will get more out of a plastic filter than you will from the paper version.

Right Fit/Compatibility With Motorcycle

You won’t choose the best motorcycle oil filter for Harley if you ride a Yamaha. Each model requires a specific oil filter size, design, construction, and parts to be effective. You can use a motorcycle oil filter lookup to find the type that fits your bike the best or check your owner’s manual.

Performance Enhancing Features

There are two performance features you want your oil filter to include. The Anti-Drain Back Valve prevents the oil from going back to the pan when you shut off the engine. Also, the Safety Release Valve is a vital component of modern filters. It might also be called the bypass valve.

Price & Warranty

As you look through the best motorcycle oil filter comparison, you will find a variety of price points offered. It might be tempting to choose the cheapest one, but will this provide the best value. Look at how often you have to change it and what type of guarantees you get to ensure you pick the top choice.

1. K&N KN-303

Our K&N motorcycle oil filter review shows why this brand is among the top choices. It’s been a great brand for motorcycles, cars, trucks, and ATVs alike. This KN-303 comes with a 17mm exposed nut and an anti-drain back valve. These two features enhance the durability and performance, so it won't require replacement too often. 

The anti-drain back valve helps reduce dry starts, while also preventing oil from heading back into the crankcase. With this heavy-duty oil filter, you can prevent some of the conditions that cause motorcycle engines to fail. Additionally, the filter holds up under harsh conditions, so you can use it in any climate. With the resin-impregnated construction, you will effectively trap most contaminants that would otherwise hurt the engine.

Sure, this isn’t the cheapest oil filter in our list, but it’s overwhelmingly worth the cost, according to customer reviews. Plus, K&N offers a one-year warranty, which ensures further protection. While it’s simple to install and use, there is only one downside that we have found. It appears in some cases that the nut isn’t durable, leading to premature failure. However, this doesn’t seem to happen often and would be covered by the warranty.

2. WIX Filters - 51358

Our motorcycle oil filter reviews show that Wix also makes a reliable filter. The 51358 offers superior capacity and efficiency. This filter comes with an inner element tube, mounting plate, gasket, and center tube. What you will find with this filter is a higher dirt-holding capacity, ensuring that you can ride for longer times without an oil filter change.

With the Wix filter, you will find low flow restriction and a high particle size retention. These two factors enhance the performance and efficiency. The durable construction ensures that it doesn't fail in the middle of your ride. With this spin-on oil filter, you protect the bike engine from premature wear. It’s constructed from pleated paper and suspended materials that hold up under pressure. Plus, this filter is simple to install.

You will spend a little less to own this motorcycle filter, but you don't lose a lot of performance. However, some reviews show that the packaging isn't superior and allows some of the filters to arrive damaged. On the bright side, the filters come with a limited lifetime warranty, as long as you install the equipment properly. Plus, this model fits a variety of motorcycles for a perfect fit.

3. K&N KN-171C

If you ride a Harley, there is an oil filter that’s right for you. K&N offers another reliable oil filter for your Harley-Davidson motorcycle. It also comes with a 17mm exposed nut to offer a quick removal. You will never struggle to get this out of your bike. With the high-performance filter, you get a heavy-duty construction that holds up under extreme conditions.

With the additional durability, you won't need to replace it often. This resin-impregnated filter traps nearly 100% of contaminants that could damage your bike engine. Additionally, with the anti-drain back valve, you can eliminate dry start. Plus, the oil will not drain back into the crankcase.

This model will cost a little more than some others, but that's because it is specially made for Harleys. Still, this filter comes with exceptional customer reviews from riders that rely on the performance. Plus, K&N continues to supply a one-year warranty with all its filters, ensuring that your money is well spent. Whether you use conventional or synthetic oil, you can trust this filter to remove unwanted contaminants. If only the best will do for your Harley, you owe it to your bike to install a K&N filter.

4. PC Racing PCS1

While this part is markedly higher-priced than the disposable options, you will see through our reusable oil filter motorcycle review why it’s a valuable option. This particular model fits Honda, Kawasaki, and Suzuki bikes for a wide range of uses. Additionally, it is constructed from durable laser-cut and medical-grade 304 stainless steel micronic fiber cloth that is reusable.

With this motorcycle filter, you catch items as small as 35 microns large, which is three times better than a brass or paper filter. Plus, it can easily withstand temperatures up to 600 degrees Fahrenheit. Even under extreme heat, the filter maintains a consistent flow. Plus, it can be used in the presence of water or during cold starts up, where the paper filters will normally fail. With this design, you are ensured that the bypass valve remains closed, and unfiltered oil doesn't make it into the motorcycle engine.

While not everyone will want to invest in this filter, it can save you money in the long run, especially since you won't need disposable filters anymore. The performance is superior, according to the countless five-star reviews. To top it off, the company offers a two-year warranty that helps to increase the value of your investment.

5. Honda OEM

While it’s possible to find an AutoZone motorcycle oil filter for a Honda motorcycle, some people feel better choosing OEM equipment. With a Honda OEM oil filter, you get a direct replacement, which provides peace of mind. This genuine part is covered under the one-year Honda warranty when purchased from an authorized retailer.

Additionally, this OEM motorcycle filter provides maximum protection from contamination, to ensure your bike’s engine lasts as long as possible. If you are operating a bike under warranty, it’s often best to choose OEM parts. When the manufacturer makes the parts, you know they are made to exact specifications, which reduces any worry over whether it will be a reliable product. Sure, you could spend a lot more money on a high-performance oil filter, but there’s really no reason to. Honda understands what your bike’s engine requires and supplies every need with this filter.

We know that this Honda oil filter isn’t going to work for everyone, especially if you own a different bike brand, but those who use it can’t say enough good. Just look at all of the five-star reviews. Just make sure you use the motorcycle oil filter cross reference to ensure compatibility with your bike before purchasing.

6. Hiflofiltro (HF303RC)

Another option for your Honda or Yamaha bike is this racing filter from Hiflofiltro. These RC racing oil filters have been made to meet the unique demands that come from motorcycle racing. If you are a top-level racer, you won't be disappointed. It's a TUV certified oil filter, so you can count on the quality, vehicle warranty compatibility and performance levels.

The heavy-duty case is made from steel and comes complete with a 17mm cross-drilled nut that enables an easier installation and removal. There is also lock wiring for racing use. The tri-fiber filtration design improves the oil flow and features a higher capacity. It doesn’t matter if your races take place at the track or on the street, this design is sure to impress.

With the rubber coated relief valve, you also get the perfect seal. Plus, this filter is compatible with all oil types to offer more versatility. It doesn't even cost that much to get this extra protection. These premium filters also come with a one-year warranty. Sadly, you can't get this model for many other bikes other than a Honda and select Yamaha bikes. If it works with your equipment, count it a blessing, and scoop up the deal.

7. K&N KN-140

Yamaha owners take a lot of pride in their bikes, which is why a high-quality oil filter is required. Once again, you can count on K&N to provide some of the best on the market, without spending a small fortune. This particular oil filter contains a high flow rate to protect the engine properly. With the synthetic-blend filtration, you know that most of the harmful contaminants are removed with ease.

Plus, it will work with any type of oil to ensure maximum compatibility. The simple design makes installation and removal a breeze, even if you don't have a lot of experience. Just use your wrench to get a good hold of it. With the heavy-duty canister construction, you won't need to fret over the durability either.

K&N provides a one-year warranty with this oil filter, just like with the others. This provides you with the required protection to ensure maximum value. For the cost, reliability, and ease of installation, it's difficult to choose another filter for your Yamaha. Of course, this particular model won’ t fit many other bikes, but it’s ideal if it works with yours.

8. Mobil 1 M1MC-134

We couldn’t end our reviews without looking at a high-end Mobil 1 motorcycle oil filter. This one is ideal for off-road bikes and motorsports. Before you participate in off-road sports, you want to make sure you have the protection needed. Buying a filter from Mobil 1 will cost you a little more, but the design makes the expense worth it. With this highly efficient filter, you get nearly 100% protection from contaminants.

The advanced synthetic fiber blend also ensures that the product holds more dirt than a cheaper conventional oil filter. With the steel center tube, you can also count on the additional strength. Plus, there is a convenient peel-off label that helps you remember when to change your motorcycle oil. With this little reminder, you can properly maintain your bike and protect the engine.

If you need a Kawasaki motorcycle oil filter, cross reference your model through Amazon's tool to ensure this is going to fit. It doesn't seem to work with many models, but is an excellent choice if it does. Most of the negative comments come from users that didn’t get the fit they expected. To avoid these compatibility issues, you want to perform your due diligence before purchasing.

Types Of Oil Filter Designs

Magnetic Oil Filter

This type provides secondary support and isn’t often used with motorcycles. This equipment doesn’t need to be changed as often as other formats.

Cartridge Oil Filter

This full-flow oil filter is mounted upright and doesn’t contain metal parts. Not only is it simple to replace, but you don’t have to remove oil to inspect it.

Spin-on Oil Filter

This full-flow oil filter is the most commonly used on motorcycles. It contains a steel canister that has a paper element inside. However, the oil must be drained to remove this filter.

How To Change Motorcycle Oil Filters

People Also Ask (FAQs)

Can I use a car oil filter on a motorcycle? What are the differences between them?

No, the car oil filter will contain more elements and fibers that could interfere with your bike's oil pressure.

What is the best motorcycle oil filter brand? Are K&N oil filters better than Fram?

The K&N oil filter for a motorcycle is considered to be higher-end than the comparable Fram motorcycle oil filter. However, if performance doesn’t matter to you, it’s possible to save some money by using the Fram oil filter chart for motorcycles. Our motorcycle oil filter comparison charts above break down the differences.

What is the best motorcycle air filter oil?

Should I prefill the oil filter before installing it?

It is unnecessary to prefill the filter, but you do want to rub some on the O-ring to increase the sealing ability.

What happens if you use the wrong oil filter?

The wrong motorcycle oil filter can create a significant impact on oil pressure. If you use the wrong filter, you could see too much or too little oil pass through to the engine.

How often should the oil filter be changed?

The frequency of change will depend on your bike and filter used. However, most mechanics recommend changing the bike oil filter every 3,000 miles.

Is a special oil filter needed for synthetic oil?

No, you won’t need a different oil filter, but you might opt for a high-performance model that holds up longer.

Conclusion