How to Choose Motorcycle Engine Oil?
2 Answers
Engine oil selection primarily depends on high-temperature viscosity, indicated by the 'Y' in XW/Y0. Unless the engine design has specific requirements, generally water-cooled engines use 40, while oil-cooled engines use 50; Four-cylinder engines use 40, while twin-cylinder and single-cylinder engines use 50; Engines with lower torque use 40, while those with higher torque use 50; engines with higher RPM limits use 40, while those with lower RPM limits use 50.
I love talking about choosing motorcycle oil because I've been riding for over a decade. First, consider your motorcycle type. For my sports bike, the user manual recommends full synthetic oil, typically with a viscosity of 10W-40. In hotter summers, opt for higher viscosity like 15W-50 to prevent engine overheating. Never use car oil for convenience – motorcycles have wet clutches and require JASO MA2 certified oil. I trust Shell's Advance series. Riding habits matter too. If you frequently ride on mountain roads or highways, choose more wear-resistant synthetic oil. Check the oil level every 3,000 km and change it promptly to avoid carbon buildup and wear. Remember, good oil protects engine life and enhances riding safety.