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Engine oil weight question

 
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Old Jun 23, 2011 | 07:45 AM
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Markk9
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From: Greensboro, NC
Default Engine oil weight question

I'm not trying to start a pissing contest...................

Why is 10-40 only ok when the starting temp is below 40? I understand the 10 weight oil flows better at lower temps, but with synthetic does it matter? How much better does a 10 weight synthetic oil flow compared to 20 weight synthetic? Once the engine is warmed up to operating temp and running on the highway, does 10-40 offer less protection then a 20-50? I would like to know, I'm a 365 rider, as long as there is no snow or ice on the road I ride to work. Winter time morning temps can be down in the upper teens and low 20's.

On my non H-D bikes I run a motor cycle rated synthetic oil 5w-40. Would this oil cause problems to a V-Rod's engine if used during the summer?
 
 
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