Oh dear, an oil question.

[avion]

Seriously though....

If you remember a while ago, after consulting with TTC, I too switched over to a fully synthetic oil in place of a semi-synth.

I don't know if it's a coincidence or perhaps some problem, but Angie seems to be running a little hotter now. Probably one bar more than normal.

Google~ing results in a lot of squid mentality and oil flame wars.

Can you guys shed any light?

...

 

[CarlS]

Synthetic oil does not not transfer heat as well as dino oil. However, this is partly offset by decreased friction. It is more than offset by the the viscosity of synthetic oil not breaking down as it does with dino oils. Not being familiar at all with your bike, I really can't intelligently comment on the higher temp reading; but a slightly higher reading does not surprise me.

 

[Rocky]

Last Summer I switched to Amsoil full synthetic in my H***a which is water cooled so I didn't notice any diference - if there is a difference.
I've been using semi-synthetic in the T100 since day one and I haven't noticed any heat problems. This also a moderate climate so cooling isn't a problem.

 

[Dschief]

On a liquid cooled bike, like that H word Rocky didn't use, synthetic oil should not make any difference to the operating temps as the engine temperature is controlled by a thermostat. An air cooled bike will see slightly higher temps as you are at the mercy of the ambient temperature and the cooling effects of the engine fins and the oil cooler (if so fitted). The synthetic oil also has the benefit of being able to withstand much higher sustained operating temperatures before breaking down, like being stuck in traffic. I've seen 300 degs F on my Bonneville sitting in Baltimore/DC traffic.

 

[Dilligaf]

Use clean oil

 

[DaveM]

I never really noticed any real rise in temp when I change over on my Speedmaster but then I was also not really looking for it. So far I have had no issue with over heating at all.

 

[avion]

It's not overheating. Just seems to be running one bar higher than normal. Peaking at 7 out of ten bars in traffic.

Spoke to Dunc' at TTC this morning. He doesn't think it's a problem. I did a flush and replaced the coolant at 20 000 km, as per the manual, seeing as now 40 000 km is creeping up it's nearly time to do it again.

...

 

[Rocky]

While we're on the subject of oil, here is something new from Amsoil.

"Amsoil has expanded its line of premium motorcycle oils to include a new SAE 60 synthetic motorcycle oil, which is formulated for the high operating temperatures of air-cooled engines, wet-clutch lubrication and the extreme pressure regions of gears and chains. The 60-weight oil features high-temperature film strength and anti-wear additives to protect engines and maintain oil pressure, even in high-heat conditions. It is thermally stable, resists breakdown and contains maximum levels of oxidation inhibitor additives as well as special anti-rust agents. With no friction modifiers, it promotes smooth shifting and positive clutch engagement by controlling heat and preventing slippage and glazing."

 

[CarlS]

Thanks, Rocky. I may give that a try try this summer.