Hi, I went to change my oil in the Across a couple of weeks ago and all I could get was Shell 'S' 20-50W. The blokes in the shop reckoned it'd be fine (the Across spec asks for 10-40W). Anyway, it wasn't fine - bike felt really sluggish. And normally (with 10-40W) starting with the choke on would see the bike rev to approx 3k in about 15 seconds after start. With this oil the bike would just sit at 1krpm with the choke on. So after 300km I went to replace the oil and decided on trying out a $69 Motul synthetic - 5100 - 10-40W. Man what a difference! Bike revs out way better, gear changes feel super-precise.. What are people's thoughts on synthetic engine oils? From what I can gather it seems the older folk are the ones claiming mineral oil is the only way to go. But after feeling what a difference this engine oil makes I don't think I'll be going back to mineral. Discuss? :-\
You bring up an interesting point Brad. The motorcycle manufacturers do not recommend synthetic oils as a rule, mineral oil is usually the standard. However, I have used Motul mineral 20w-50 in the last 2 Suzuki Across's without any problems whatsoever, bikes did everything perfectly. Last oil change on the CBR1100 was Motul synthetic 10w-40 as specified by the shop, jobs right. The major difference being between the 2 oils is PRICE, synthetic being appreciatively more expensive. Hey, if it works for you, then it's a no brain er, use it. Curious to hear what others have to say on this subject. Phil
Hey Brad Spoke to my mechanic this morning re: your oil issue, he wondered if you didn't over fill the engine with oil, the symptoms you discribbed were along that line. Can have that effect. He also stated that synthetic oil tended to last longer as a rule, thought I'd share that with you. Phil
I *did* have a little too much in there Phil ! I had the bike on the rear stand thing when I changed the oil - about 100ml I reckon. the rear stand only raises the rear wheel about 20mm, but enough to result in the discrepancy on the oil level window. Regardless, it didn't change anything about the feel of gearr changes or the bike in general. Incidentally, what can happen from having too much oil? Blown gaskets?
Hey Brad Gasket can blow and the crankcase breather ceases to function correctly if overfilled. Last year Kiffsta delivered a bike to me that needed some attention. My 1st task was to drain the oil, big surprise here as I retrieved over 4 litres of oil when the bike required 2.8L, needless to say that many functions returned to normal when correct quantities were put in. Apparently the previous owner had gotten carried away but the bike suffered no longterm effects. As a rule I check the manual or see whats stamped on the engine casing and put in 100ml less. It's always easier to add a little rather than trying to subtract. Phil
