Chris McGinnis
Cesar Millan
Sam Lowe
Jason Fogelson
Bryson Forbes
Amy Graff
Karla Henriquez
Synthetic Oil
June 24 2011 by Jason Fogelson
A few years ago, when my Sportster was in for service at my local Harley-Davidson dealership, Tom the service manager asked me if I had considered changing over to synthetic oil.
"Synthetic oil? Isn't that for new high-tech engines?" I asked. "Doesn't my old-fashioned air-cooled V-twin need thick, sludgy 40-weight?"
Tom took the time to explain why synthetic oil was a better choice for my Sportster and my riding style, and I decided to change over. I have never regretted my choice.
Synthetic oil has been widely available for about thirty years. It was originally developed and used during World War II, primarily as a lubricant for aircraft engines. Part of the motivation for developing synthetics was in reaction to the scarcity of conventional petroleum-based oil, but engineers quickly discovered that the new oils had several advantages over the petroleum stuff. Synthetics changed less with temperature, which meant that they retained their viscosity in cold weather and thinned out less in heat, so engines would be properly lubricated in a wide range of conditions.
Motorcycle engines need proper lubrication at all times, especially at start-up. When conventional petroleum-based motor oil sits and cools, it thickens and settles at the bottom of the engine. The first few minutes that the engine runs, there's more friction between the parts, as the oil slowly circulates and warms up. That few minutes of increased friction is extremely hard on an engine, and can greatly reduce engine life.
Synthetic motor oil changes that. It remains liquid and slippery when cool, providing proper lubrication at lower temperatures. It also retains its stability at high temperatures, when petroleum-based oils can get thin. The result is lower operating temperatures and reduced wear, two things you desperately want for your engine. Synthetic oils can also last longer than petroleum-based oils, which can extend service intervals for many owners.
Potential downsides of synthetic motor oil are few, but important. Synthetic oil is more expensive than petroleum-based oil. A quart of Genuine Harley-Davidson H-D 360 Motorcycle Oil runs about $7.49, while a quart of Screamin' Eagle SYN3 Full Synthetic Motorcycle Lubricant starts at $11.95. Synthetic oil and conventional oil may not be compatible with each other in your engine, so if you notice that you need to add oil to your crankcase while on the road, you have to be careful to add the right lubricant. Harley-Davidson provides a chart that answers many questions about compatibility and uses of synthetics.
Should you switch to synthetic motor oil for your motorcycle? If you regularly ride in heavy traffic, or in high ambient temperatures, I would recommend it. If you live in a colder climate and need better cold starting, I'd also recommend it. For a slight premium, you'll get added protection, longer life and reduced engine wear. Seems like Tom the service manager steered me right.
As The World's Biggest Hotel Family®, we know it is a big world out there
with lots of places to see and experience. Best Western's You Must Be
Trippin' travel blog offers travel tips, ideas and feature destinations
to make your next trip a success. We are also interested in where
you've been trippin' and invite you to share your travel ideas, tips
and destinations with us.
Please wait while my tweets load 
Follow Us
