Actually, I would say any modern, SN-rated oil would do just fine. When the bike was new, the API standard was something like SF. The modern SN type, is nothing like the old SF. Modern oils are much higher in detergents, much better in every way.
Suggestions:If on a tight budget, go with
Super-Tech brand, from
Wal-Mart, I'd suggest their full synthetic, in the proper weight. Otherwise, I agree with the suggestion of using
Shell Rotella T6 Synthetic. It's a diesel oil, rated SN for cars, no friction modifiers, so it won't affect the wet clutch; it's widely used in motorcycles, search the Internet for comments on its use in M/C's.
I would also suggest running
SeaFoam in the crankcase, once, to remove carbon sludge left over from the SF oil used when the bike was young. Check the oil's color, before adding
SeaFoam to the oil tank, as dissolved carbon deposits will turn it dark/black. Follow directions, add the correct amount to the oil tank, run it on the center stand for five minutes, shifting through all gears, idling, to circulate it through the transmission. If/when the oil turns black, change it, and the filter (which will catch much of the crud). With modern detergent oils, you will not need to repeat this cleaning treatment. Cheers!
1979 CB750K (sold, 2012, but not forgotten)
1983 Kawasaki 440 LTD Belt Drive (sold, 2011)
1993 Kawasaki Voyager XII
Locked
