Another oil question I am afraid

[Clive795]

The handbook for my 2000 'W' R850R says the oil should meet the API - SF,SG,SH standard.

The only oil I could find last night says it meets the API - SL standard. ( 10w40 semi synth).

Are the standards 'backward compatible' ? i.e. SL does everything SF,SG,SH does and more, or do i need to search for an oil meeting the SG etc standard?

I have been using Castrol GP 4T mineral but the two Halfords I went to last did not have any. If anyone knows where I can get some in the Bath area it would be useful as I use it on the 12GS.

Thanks

Clive 795

 

[wessie]

From API website

"For automotive gasoline engines, the latest engine oil service category includes the performance properties of each earlier category. If an automotive owner's manual calls for an API SH or SJ oil, an API SL oil will provide full protection. For diesel engines, the latest category usually - but not always - includes the performance properties of an earlier category."

So, yes, the SL oil will be fine to use for a full oil change or to top up any other oil meeting an API spec.

 

[Clive795]

Thanks Wessie,
I need to practise my Google search terms and then wouldn't need to trouble everyone here!

Clive795

 

[Greg Masters]

Be careful with this.

There's no worry with your R850R as it has a dry clutch. But for wet clutch bikes, the API rating is NOT backwards compatible.

Greg

 

[wessie]

Be careful with this.

There's no worry with your R850R as it has a dry clutch. But for wet clutch bikes, the API rating is NOT backwards compatible.

Greg

Makers of bikes who are concerned that modern API approved automotive oils will cause problems with wet clutches SHOULD specify an oil that meets the Japanese motorcycle spec. JASO MA.

See http://www.aac-jasoinfo.com/jaso_web/index.htm

 

[dotcaf]

Further to the below, I have a 650, which DOES have a wet clutch.

The only available oil that I can find is all SL. Does anybody know somewhere in London the sells SF/SG/SH rated oil? Ideally Castrol GP but not especially fussy.

Cheers,
Charles

 

[wessie]

Further to the below, I have a 650, which DOES have a wet clutch.

The only available oil that I can find is all SL. Does anybody know somewhere in London the sells SF/SG/SH rated oil? Ideally Castrol GP but not especially fussy.

Cheers,
Charles

I know London is quite backward compared to rural Wales, but have you really tried very hard?

Every branch of Hein Gericke will sell Motul oil: they usually have a deal going where you buy 4l of oil and get an oil & air filter included.

Forget the API spec: go by the JASO spec. detailed above. If the bottle has JASO MA on it then it has been approved for use in wet clutches. See http://www.motul.fr/uk/produits/index.html

HG website: http://www.hein-gericke.com/uk/index.php

I'm sure branches of Infinity will have suitable stuff too
http://www.infinitymotorcycles.com/

Even my local Halfords, a very small store, has own brand oil suitable for motorcycles. The larger out of town branches stock a wide selection of Castrol products too.

 

[ELIMINATOR]

Don't just look for the correct spec. Be aware that the 1150 handbook states that 10-40 is suitable for temperatures up to 20c.

Oh that won't happen very often then Standard oil by BMW in Hampshire is 10-40

I use 15-50 in mine.

 

[gavin@iow]

Are the standards 'backward compatible' ? i.e. SL does everything SF,SG,SH does and more?

Thanks

Clive 795

Not according to this- http://www.gunsmoke.com/motorcycling/reviews/sj_oil/index.html