Take a breath. I am not looking to start this tired old debate all over again. I found a very interesting article about oils and aircooled motorcycle engines, specifically the Norton, which apperantly has a reputation for running hot and generally being hard on oils. Here is the link.
http://www.nortonclub.com/docs/OilTemp.pdf
I am using Redline 20W60 in the R100SuperS as she tends to run a little on the hot side.
After reading this I'm glad I don't own a Norton!
What his reports lacks is baseline measurements. The Chain Gang did some more in-depth oil assay testing, WITH baseline measurements, on water-cooled, wet-clutch F650s. Every oil tested was good to the factory recommended 6k change interval.
I realize that air and water-cooled engines do not compare. What I suggest is rather than have some esoteric oil religion based on faith and voodoo, TEST your oil. Retain a sample of fresh, unused oil, about a baby food jar worth. At your change interval grab a sample of the used oil. Send them in to any reputable assay service. Some will test the baseline sample for free if you give them the manufacture, product name & weight and the LOT CODE from the bottle. See how YOUR CHOSEN OIL performs in YOUR MOTORCYCLE. Then you can decide, based on facts, whether your change interval is too long or too short or your choice of product is wrong.
Here is an old assay report, one of many I have run. Lubriport will give you a discount if you tell them that you are in the BMWMOA.
Click here for Tales of Motorcycles and Life
Click here for Pristine '98 F650 FOR SALE
- BMW MOA Lifetime Member #18854
What Flash said.
Jim Johnson, OP Kansas
Marcus Aurelius: "The object of life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane."
glad I run redline
Golden Spectro makes BMW's oils for motocycles according to the Golden Spectro rep at oil seminar at the BMWMOA Ntional Rallye I attended at Spokane, Washington in 2004. I find it hard to imagine that BMW hasn't tested what they stake their reputation on. If you want a professional test on motorcycle oils you might want to look at this site. http://www.amsoil.com/lit/g2156.pdf
I am not promoting any oil; but, I think there are better ways to test oils than with a Norton and 10 miles of highway.
Posting Permissions
Reply With Quote