Thanks to all forthe info - I guess an oil cooler is the way to go!? Even though I'm in TX the temp is still in the 70-80's (and not much warmer than before the 1000mi service) and not close to the 100+ we will havethis summer.

 

Running synthetic oils will only bring the temps down a few degrees. The big benefit to running sync oils is their ability to better deal with higher temps.

Viscosity breakdown is still probably not an issue for even the dino-oil, but the synthetics hang on longer at higher temps, and begin to breakdown on a less-dramatic curve.

Our Harley engines are designed to deal with whatever mother nature gives them, and with whatever our spark plugs can dish out. I think folks over-worry about heat.

Anyone got any evidence or photos of a cooked engine? Ever heard about a warrenty claim related to over-heating? Of all the Harley engines out there (of any year), I don't think many have experienced breakdown due to a heat issue.

Being a happy-rider is a different story....a little (or a lot) less heat rising up will always be a good thing for our comfort.