When would you consider an engine 'run in'?

[Jfro5687_imp]

Hi all, just for a bit of fun ( not wanting to start anything ranty here....) when would you consider a new engine to be run in? Is the expression even relevant anymore? I dunno? I know the first service is about 600 miles but already I'm sure I can feel my new RS spinning up a little more freely/easily and it ticks over ever so sweetly at idle. I have 360 miles on it so far which is nothing (I realise that). I would expect modern engines to be better built than years ago or perhaps I should say built with finer tolerances and better materials than years ago. I am of an age when mechanical sympathy carries a lot of weight so I will not be thrashing it no matter. I know some say you can/should thrash them from new to get best power etc etc but I just couldn't do that. I would put say 3000 miles forward as a benchmark for bearings/bores/cams/gears etc to be bedded in. Just wondered what you think? Kind regards john.

[PowerDubs_imp]

I say good to go the first time it is started.

Just allow a few minutes each ride for things to warm up a bit, oil move around etc before giving her the beans.


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[the Ferret]

I don't think they get really settled in until about 2000 miles. You usually see an increase in gas mileage at that point and the trans is working like butter.

[LongRanger_imp]

I'd agree. 2000 miles seems about right for the CB. My Moto Guzzi's took about 6000 miles and a few of my BMW's took about twice that. Something to do with the Nikasil lining in the cylinders.

[apex1_imp]

The 2017 EX owners manual says 300 miles. My salesman, who used to be a Honda technician, says the engines are all run on a dyno and not to worry about break-in. I have no clue if that is true. I just passed 300 miles and I am now getting more aggressive. I always go easy until the engine has a chance to build some heat.

[peterbaron]

Generally, if not specified by manufacturer, 3000-4000 km

[Lord Popgun]

Like Ferret said, about 2000 miles and mine settled in and fuel mileage was up and pretty much stayed the same since.

[Calcb_imp]

I take it easy until I do the first oil change, sometimes a little early before 600 miles, put in the best oil I can and then don’t stress. Im still low key but at that point it’s not worth worrying about.

[the Ferret]

I wasn't talking about when it would be ok to run it hard, technically you could do that after the 600 mile break in service, as long as you didn't exceed the motor's redline. I was saying when I felt all the motor and transmission parts were properly seated/mated and wouldn't experience any more significant change and would remain basically the same for the next 100,000 miles.

[FLYTYM_imp]

I’ve been riding mine at a bit of a brisk pace from 1 mile,not babied but not thrashed either. I think I’ve taken it to 7 grand once.