a mechanical failure) and this
real-world info from a multi-line
dealership is enough for us to
recommend using motorcycle
specific oils and not Rotella.
Once you choose a brand
of motorcycle oil, how do you
select the best oil among the
various options; synthetic,
semi synthetic, ester, etc.,
and is it worth it to buy the
more premium options?
Both Riley and Marcella
pointed out that your first step
is to check the owner's manual
for your bike. The manufacturers
designate specific oil guidelines
for each bike. Not using an oil
that meets those guidelines
will likely void your warranty but
more importantly, the incorrect
oil will likely negatively impact
performance or the wear of your
internal engine parts.
The owner's manual will
sometimes suggest their house
or partner brand, but they will
not require a specific brand
(they are not allowed, by law, to
specify a brand) but usually list
a specific viscosity grade, or
a selection of viscosity grades
based on ambient temperatures,
a minimum level of quality (API
SL/JASO MA, for example) and
sometimes a designation of base
oil type (mineral, semi-synthetic
or full-synthetic). Especially while
your bike is under warranty, they
both suggest sticking strictly to
oils that meet those guidelines.
If your bike is past the warranty
period, it is still good to stick
with those manufacturer recom-
mendations since they designed
the motor and know the specific
needs. If the manufacturer spe-
cifically recommends petroleum-
based oil, use that as some inter-
nal seals require that to "swell" in
size and work properly.
OIL SELECTION
P78
HOW-TO
After consulting your owner's
manual for the recommended oil
type, you still have several options
among brands. Generally, the
higher cost synthetic oils will hold
up better in extreme conditions.
