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.