Oil warning light

[JonnyB]

Hi,
I just bought a CB1 (1989 model), my first big bike!  Up until now I have been used to riding 125 machines, so this is a real joy, can't stop grinning.

One small niggle though, when I turn the key in the ignition the oil warning light comes on, it goes off again as soon as the engine is started, and doe snot come on again until the engine is stopped.

Is this normal or should I be worried?


Also, whe it's warm the tacho shows the idle speed is hunting between 1000 - 1500 rpm, it does not stall or anything silly, but I'd like to know if that's normal.


I'm not mechanically inclined, I can handle basic stuff like chain and sprocket replacement, but anything inside the engine is strictly theoretical.

Cheers,
JonnyB

[psubrock]

It is normal. It is simple technology, when the key is turned on the bike is in the same state in which it is running. But there is no oil pressure, because the engine isn't running, thus the same when you turn it off.
It shouldn't be hunting like that the carbs most likely need synced.

[sparkybloke]

the oil light comes on when you switch on ignition key to prove the lamp and circuit are working,and should go off when engine running.if the lamp does not light you need to fix promptly otherwise you will be unaware of low pressure .remember if it comes on whilst riding or engine running you should stop immediately and switch off engine and check oil level with the dipstick in the filler cap.running on low oil level or pressure is probably the worst sin in the book! the good news is my bike seems not loose any oil between servicing hopefully your is is the same

[JonnyB]

Thanks for the replies, it's nice to know there are people out there who are willing to share a bit of knowledge.