Oil Light

I started my '01 R1 after winter storage and the oil light came on. I believe the light is an indicator of volume - not pressure - so I checked the sight glass. The oil level is exactly where it was in December when I put the bike up. When I start the bike I can see the oil being picked up, so short of a pressure check, I figure everything is as it should be. I went for a short ride to see if sloshing it around would help - no change. I threw in a extra half quart - no change. Any helpful comments or ideas?

Yes, you are right it monitors level not pressure. Common problem, but usually cured by adding a bit more oil (top of sight glass). Seems like it is truly broken/stuck. Sensor is located in oil pan and to replace the headers will need to come off.

Good. In that case I'll throw some tape over the light so I don't go loony looking at it. That way I can ride it until I have time to fix it. Just wanted to make sure my one wasn't going to start making expensive noises.

I have a 2000, so it should be the same. My oil light is picky as hell. I find it has to be **exactly** the right level or the light comes on. I can have it on, add a tablespoon or so of oil and it's enough to turn it off till the next oil change. Retarded.

same here, all 00-01 have that problem

i also experienced that last week, i just add oil above normal level and the light never blink again..

hey guys my 2001 R1 has a problem too what should i do ?? symtoms.. when you start then shut it off for a while... then come back within 20-30 minutes later the oil light comes on sometimes it goes off but alot of times it wont turn off until i shut off the key for about 10 second then back on and its finee .. but only does it when you have had it running within an hour or so.. what should i do ??

Check the oil level is at max when cold, if it is you can try adding a little extra. I am guessing that as the problem only occurs after the engine has been running that some of the oil is still elsewhere in the engine rather than the sump when you restart it. If that doesn't cure it and you can't live with the problem replace the level sensor.

cool... i changed the oil today and added alittle extra, hopefully that solves it.. thank you.. oh yeah, hey i like your bike my cousin has the same scheme he has #13 made in 1998... i was looking for a 99 but got an 01 instead..

yeah, same problem here...but increasing the oil fixed the problem!....

I have the same problem.