Honda Type 2 Coolant

[RevRider]

I have a 2001 Valk, original owner, only 26,500 miles (wish I could ride more) and have used the Honda motorcycle coolant changing every two years as the manual says.  However, on my last change in 2009, I used Honda's auto coolant Type 2 that is supposed to be good for 5 years, 60,000 miles.

It will be 2 years next month, does it have to be changed?

RevRider

[El Borrego]

I hate assuming but if Honda says it's good for 5 years/60K, then I wouldn't change it for 5 years.  Otherwise, why go to extended miles and probably more money if you don't take advantage of it.  If after 2 years you see a big difference in the color, then I'd change it but if not, let it run.

[mello dude]

If you crack the cap and the stuff still looks blue, just top it off and your good to go. If it looks discolored change it.
I have use the Honda auto coolant in bikes for years.......

[RevRider]

Thank you both for your responses.

[Pluggy]

It is my understanding that mixing Peak or WalMart (undiluted) anti-freeze 50-50 with distilled water makes Honda spec. coolant.  You get two gallons for about $10.  At that price, I'll continue to change it every two years, as it is not much work.

Maybe the two year change interval is related to the size of the radiator and cooling system.  As it is smaller than a car radiator, it may clog more readily.

[cookiedough]

I wouldn't worry about it for another 5 years since you put on low mileage per year.  I'd say the silicate free coolant I used which was Prestone 50/50 mix at walmart buy 1 get 1 free mail in rebate for around 8 bucks was also good for 5 years/60K plus and I have no problems waiting that long since only put on 2-3K per year on the bike.  I could be wrong, but when I changed it 3-4 years ago, the antifreeze that was in there was probably original stuff never changed before and that lasted 7-8 years, but the liquid was discolored/stained more so than the replacement stuff.  You can just look at the reservoir tank and look inside to see if different color than the new stuff.  If much different color, I'd change it since cheap insurance.   Pretty easy to do.  Hardest problem I had was reinstalling the hoses to the reservoir tank to clean out the gunky old stuff.  Just be careful not to spill the antifreeze when refilling.

[salty]

Johnny come lately here!    I just switched over to Honda auto type 2 antifreeze also. If you compare the ingredients of the type two to Honda MC coolant they are identical. Apparently, dyed differently. There is also a two degree difference in boiling point, higher for the auto coolant. Regardless of what is said about the frequency of coolant changes for autos, it's probably best to follow the MC service manual for your Valk.