Engine Oil

Post by **frozennorth** » Fri May 05, 2006 11:18 am

Yeah, I get the money part. We can all use a bit more in our pocket.

I have read studies on oil's though, and even the 100% synth starts to break down after the first 2-3k miles, especially if you're like most of us and like to push the rpm's doing the curvy bits. I noticed on this last trip, doing lot's of mountain passes, curves, warm temp, and one big-a** dust storm that my oil looks dirty after 2K miles

Also, used about 1/4 quart on the first 1,500 miles . . . something that's never happened before . . . mind you, this is some of the hardest riding I've done on this bike.

Anyway, appreciate the banter

Cheers!

Post by **challey** » Fri May 05, 2006 11:37 am

bono1151
So you guys that are using 100% synthetic only change the oil every 6000? What about the filter every 6k as well?

Not going to weigh in on any debate about oil but regarding filters, much of what I read seems to indicate that the filter is somewhat more important than the oil. The AMSOIL literature in particular states that extended drain intervals - up to 25k for automobile engines - are acceptable if you are using synthetic and change the filter every 3k miles (or use an extended duty filter). The reasoning is that the oil retains adequate lubricating ability for a relatively long time if contaminents continue to be filtered out. I'm using that philosophy on my R at the moment and change out the filter only at 3k and do both oil and filter at 6k.

chris · Post by **chris** » Tue May 16, 2006 4:20 pm

Spoke to Castrol technical today as I needed to top up my oil but couldn't buy any GPS 10/40 locally as that's what's in there. They told me I could put whatever I want in this bike, even add mineral to fully synthetic, semi-synthetic and that adding 15/40 mineral oil to my semi synthetic would get it closer to what BMW recommend for the first 10K miles. Also recommended GTX or Magnatec over more expensive motorcycle oils when doing a full change. Comments?

Post by **duke** » Tue May 16, 2006 5:19 pm

I had my first oil change couple of months back - that was Castrol semi 10/40. I have topped so far with Shell semi 10/40. I am not mechanic, but:

I would rather change oil every 3k miles and not worry too much about the brand (as long it is major brand). Considering that I ride 2 x 8 miles a day - the engine would probably appreciate oil change a little more often than recommended considering the short journeys.

chris · Post by **chris** » Wed May 17, 2006 2:59 am

As Castrol GTX is only Ã‚Â£7 for 5 litres it's not going to be a major expense to drop it regularly. I plan on every 3K and a filter every other change.