Motorcycle oil vs non motorcycle oil
#1
06-05-2016, 04:57 AM
Motorcycle oil vs non motorcycle oil
What's the difference between the two, given the same viscosity and synthetic make up? I'm not talking about any particular brand, but many manufacturers offer a 20/50 full synthetic, and offer a full synthetic motorcycle specific 20/50. Is it worth the extra money?
#2
06-05-2016, 06:02 AM
IMO, no. They all contain essentially the same additive packages. Great marketing though...
While it's true some claim more Zinc in their package, the reality is the amount that can be added is mandated by our government so the difference needs to be measured by the most accurate of instruments (read very little difference).
Zinc has been the magic bullet for some time. It does provide for a slightly higher level of wear resistance but does so at a cost. Zinc is considered an aggressive additive and will exclude other additives (like those that carry away contaminants). This might be fine for the very short run but extended use can actually cause more wear not less.
But if motorcycle-specific oils make you happy, go for it.
While it's true some claim more Zinc in their package, the reality is the amount that can be added is mandated by our government so the difference needs to be measured by the most accurate of instruments (read very little difference).
Zinc has been the magic bullet for some time. It does provide for a slightly higher level of wear resistance but does so at a cost. Zinc is considered an aggressive additive and will exclude other additives (like those that carry away contaminants). This might be fine for the very short run but extended use can actually cause more wear not less.
But if motorcycle-specific oils make you happy, go for it.
#3
06-05-2016, 06:26 AM
IMO, no. They all contain essentially the same additive packages. Great marketing though...
While it's true some claim more Zinc in their package, the reality is the amount that can be added is mandated by our government so the difference needs to be measured by the most accurate of instruments (read very little difference).
Zinc has been the magic bullet for some time. It does provide for a slightly higher level of wear resistance but does so at a cost. Zinc is considered an aggressive additive and will exclude other additives (like those that carry away contaminants). This might be fine for the very short run but extended use can actually cause more wear not less.
But if motorcycle-specific oils make you happy, go for it.
While it's true some claim more Zinc in their package, the reality is the amount that can be added is mandated by our government so the difference needs to be measured by the most accurate of instruments (read very little difference).
Zinc has been the magic bullet for some time. It does provide for a slightly higher level of wear resistance but does so at a cost. Zinc is considered an aggressive additive and will exclude other additives (like those that carry away contaminants). This might be fine for the very short run but extended use can actually cause more wear not less.
But if motorcycle-specific oils make you happy, go for it.
#4
06-05-2016, 06:48 AM
Ultimate HDF Member
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#5
06-05-2016, 06:49 AM
Road Warrior
I buy m1 15-50 race then add stp for the extra zddp, zinc & something). At half the price and change it often, 2000- 2500 miles. Cheaper Bosch filter to go with it. It's usely just starting to change color on dip stick at 2000, I like clean oil. Soon to do my third oil change for the year.
I think I'm set for the year, picked up at Walmart for $23. Thinking of trying the STP for synthetic they just came out with but the old stuff works just fine.
I think I'm set for the year, picked up at Walmart for $23. Thinking of trying the STP for synthetic they just came out with but the old stuff works just fine.
Last edited by xcbullet; 06-05-2016 at 06:56 AM.
#6
06-05-2016, 06:52 AM
Seasoned HDF Member
#7
06-05-2016, 08:06 AM
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#8
06-05-2016, 08:16 AM
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#9
06-05-2016, 08:27 AM
