Engine Cold indicator stayed on for about 50 miles; strong gas odor during oil change

I just had my first extended ride on the '14 RX today. Temp was mid 30 to 40 degrees. The Engine Cold indicator stayed on for about 50 of the 70 miles I rode. Is this normal? If so, should I not romp on it while that indicator is lit? Why wouldn't the thermostat be able to maintain the engine temperature?

My first ride was a short one the day before to change the oil/filter. As the oil was draining into a pan, I noticed a strong gas odor in the oil. Is this anything to be concerned about? Bike has 1800 miles on it and I don't know what type of oil was in the bike before. It was pretty thin - not like the 20w50 Amsoil that I put in...unless it got diluted with gasoline.

According to the EBR manual, the correct oil is for the lowest temp your bike will be ridden in.
anything below 40* needs 10w-30 Amsoil. Too thick an oil could be catastrophic.

You could block the radiators a little (like the semis do) to help it keep temp in that cold weather.

When you change it to the correct weight oil, see if it still smells. It could be running rich because it’s just never coming up to temp.