Is it harmfull for my (dry clutch) motorcycle to use synthetic automotive oil?

Question

For the last several years I've used Castrol (full Synthetic) 5W50 in My 1996 Ducati 900SS/CR. I recently got bitched at by the parts guy at the dealer about it. He said if I didn't use 'Motorcycle Oil' I would wear out the gearbox and shorten the life of the engine.

Is there really any difference?

Answer 1

If it's a dry clutch you have nothing to worry about..

Answer 2

With a dry clutch, you've definitely taken the problem of 'friction modifiers' out of the equation.

I've worked for a mc performance shop for 10 years, and I can tell you that we don't recommend synthetic oils, and we do recommend always using motorcycle specific oils.

I've seen many damaged head components from engines running synthetics. The synth just doesn't seem to pad metal to metal contact as well. Same with automotive grade oils.

That said, if you go many miles between oil changes, the synthetic will hold up without breakdown during those extended miles.

Basically though - the engines that last the longest seem to be the ones that have their oil changed more frequently. The brand and type of oil is more secondary.

If you've used the Castrol for years with no problems, I don't see a reason to tell you to change. However, if you like to play the odds, you'll have longer life from the engine with a motorcycle-only petroleum oil - changed at very frequent intervals.

Answer 3

Facts. Automotive oils are now designed to save a bit of gasoline. That causes the manufacturers to put in slightly less anti-wear additives than there are in many motorcuycle specific oils.

Opinions. Some people think that makes motorcycle oils better, and that you should only use them.

I think it's not a major difference in practice. I believe that if you change oil and filter as recomended by the manufacturer, using the recommended SAE grade oil, it will not make any real difference which you use.

Answer 4

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Answer 5

yes the auto oil is designed for liquid cooled engines, therefore it breaks down quicker in air/oil cooled engines. Also the syn oil is made to make engine components slide smoothly across each other; however you want your clutch to stay engaged, therefore syn engine oils will soon or later burn your clutch friction plates out

Answer 6

he is full of sh!t. tell him to go back to school and pay attention this time. you dont have to worry about friction modifiers cause your ducs got a dry clutch. full syn oil is the best way to go regardless of what your moron parts guy says.