What Kind of Oil Do Motorcycles Use?

104 73

    A Quick Note About Older Bikes

    • If you have an older bike that has never had anything used in it besides traditional fossil-based oils, do not change unless directed by your mechanic. Otherwise, decide on using a synthetic oil or a fossil-based oil.

    Detergent or Non-Detergent

    • In the past, detergents were added to oils to help clean engine parts. Most oils now are marked "non-detergent" on the label.

    Synthetic or Fossil-Based

    • Many manufacturers provide guidelines on what types of oil to use. Most will offer a fossil-based choice as well as a synthetic one. Synthetic oils are branded as perfect for today's higher-tech engines. These oils are designed to withstand modern engines from sport bikes to cruisers.

    Auto or Motorcycle Oil and Matching Your Bike's RPM

    • Use oil that is designed for motorcycles unless it's for a vintage bike with specific needs.
      Different motorcycle oils are designed for different types of bikes. A cruiser circulates oil at a slower rate than a high-tech sport bike. Thus, two different types of oil means different weights, among other differences. All bottles should be clearly marked.

    Private Label & Other Brands

    • Many people prefer the high-end brands sold at upscale cycle shops which have a higher price. Many larger oil companies now offer motorcycle oils that are bike-type specific. Often the difference is the price and the private label logo.

    Avoid Low-Cost Bargain Oils

    • Always avoid low-cost bargain motorcycle oils. Bargain, no-name or generic brand oils can have more impurities and may not match the needs of your engine.

Subscribe to our newsletter
Sign up here to get the latest news, updates and special offers delivered directly to your inbox.
You can unsubscribe at any time

Leave A Reply

Your email address will not be published.