oil

[cb500bobber]

Just wondering what type of oil everyone uses. I am getting ready to change the oil in my 1972 cb500 and want to get the best kind for my money and the best for these old bikes

[Deleted]

I use a 30w from tractor supply that doesn't have any detergents in it because I don't have an oil filter.

I would imagine something with a higher zinc level would be best for the flat tappet cams.

[550fi]

A lot of guys on the SOHC forum use Shell Rotella diesel truck oil beacause it doesnt have the friction additives that car oil does.The additives will make your clutch slip.

[cb500bobber]

I've heard of doing that in a car but never in a bike that kinda scares me

[novafrk]

20w50 motorcycle oil for air cooled engines. You can't use ANY modern oil that has friction modifiers in it. It will tear up / not operate properly the clutch. Any oil that meets these specs should be fine to use: API SJ, SH, SG, CH-4, CG-4, or CF. I can not speak to the Rotella but I have heard of guys doing that.

[felkman]

Here is my thought, and I am sure some will not agree. If you have a wet clutch, go to a motorcycle shop and simply buy motorcycle oil........ If you are like roubenbird and I, and have an old BMW with a dry clutch and no filter just use a nondetergent oil only because the dirt particles will sink to the bottom of the pan instead of staying suspended and filling up your slingers. I have heard of people using Rotella with good results with their wet clutches.

[williamc89]

i use the motorcycle oil that autozone sells. the Valvoline 10W-40 motorcycle oil