Oil Change Frequency

I bought a new 300EX about 3 weeks ago. I've been able to put on about 8 hours of riding time and have a quick question. How often do most of you guys change your oil? I know the user manual says one change at the 20-hour mark, then 80 hours later. That seems a bit long to me. Both the 20-hour and the 100-hour interval. My oil is a dark brown and the level is a little low (I put in about 1/2 a quart to bring it back up). Not below the bottom mark, but lower them when I first purchased it. This tells me that it's burning some oil. Although I don't see any soot on the back fairing and the oil doesn't feel gritty or smell funny. Is this normal? Any help is greatly appreciated.

[3hondas]

I change both the oil and filter after every 3rd ride.
I use honda HP4m semi synthetic 20dub50.
Hope this helps.

[crday98]

i know you have a 300ex but read the "400ex oil" thread.iy might be the brand of oil you use.i would try another brand.everyone has their preference but i would read the thread to help pick your poison.

Thanks for the info. I'll take a look at that thread ASAP!!

[SGA]

Its normal for a new engine to use oil until the rings seat. My 400 did that also. I'd recommend first change about 10 hrs. About every 30-60 hrs after that depending on use. Do not use synthetic oil for the first two oil changes, it will not allow the rings to seat properly. Use comman sense, if you run hard, race, run in high temp areas, change it more often, 20-30 hrs or so. slow trail riding, crusing, 40-60 hrs.