How to Compare Synthetic Motorcycle Oils

Since 1885, when Gottlieb Daimler first strapped a petrol engine to a wooden bike, motorcycles have used oil. Despite this history, many who use motor oil today have little understanding of what it is, or how to distinguish between the brands and grades available.

Synthetic vs. Natural

• Synthetic oil contains non-natural, chemical ingredients that provide better lubrication and operate over a greater range of temperatures to increase fuel economy and engine life. Synthetic oils cost considerably more than natural oils, due to higher production costs.

SAE Oil Grades

• Oil comes in single and multi-grade; the latter tested at high and low engine temperatures, with the low value being specified with "W." The Society of Automotive Engineers' (SAE) grades, such as SAE 30 (single grade) and SAE 10W-30 (multi-grade), refer to the oil's SAE Viscosity scale, which ranges from the thinnest oils at grade 0, to the thick, slow-flowing oils at 60.

Comparing Synthetic Oils

• The SAE proved that high engine temperatures require thick oil. Motorcycles with high performance demands benefit from thick oils such as 20W-50. Oil such as 10W-50 has a lower viscosity when cold, making it easier to pour and circulate around the engine at low temperatures, with better fuel economy. Synthetic oils as thin as 0W-20 exist for motorcycles operating in extremely cold conditions.