I've been reading alot of recent threads and have seen two schools of thought for the first oil change. I've noticed some people changing the oil after 1,000 miles, and others talk about their first change at 5,000 miles following the Mazda schedule.

I just picked up my new RX-8 two days ago. The dealer made no mention of an early initial oil change, but I'm just wondering what everyone here thinks.

mine was changed at 1200 miles, but the oil was still very clean. I would likely wait till it starts to turn dark, or 3,000 miles, whichever comes first. Then every 3k after.

Did the first two at 2500 mile intervals because not all of the old oil gets removed. Probably going to switch to 5000 mile interval now depending on oil consumption.

While were at it... how long did you make your break-in period for? (no hard starts, no redlines, etc). The manual says 600 miles. I've been keeping mine under 6,000 rpms, and I was thinking of going easy for 1,000 miles, just for good measure.

I've been doing 5000 mile intervals since I got the free maintenance deal. The oil just starts to darken up a bit right before I take it in. If that continues until the warranty is up, I suppose I'll continue with the 5000 miles intervals.

While were at it... how long did you make your break-in period for? (no hard starts, no redlines, etc). The manual says 600 miles. I've been keeping mine under 6,000 rpms, and I was thinking of going easy for 1,000 miles, just for good measure.

I'd suggest following what
Racing Beat (https://www.racingbeat.com/RX8%20Break%20in.htm) says.

rx8cited

Excellant info! Thanks

I thought you might like that! ;)

It's good news in that it's seems very comprehensive.

It's bad news in that it now means that I have 1800 more miles to go before I can really enjoy my 8!