Whether you ride for commuting, touring, weekends, or racing, the motor oil in your motorcycle’s engine and gearbox is crucial for its performance and durability. With components spinning at high speeds, proper lubrication is essential to minimize wear and maximize engine efficiency. The right oil not only protects but also reduces friction, lowers pumping pressures, and prevents harmful deposits.
Understanding the Differences: Conventional Vs. Synthetic Engine Oil
| Conventional Engine Oil | Synthetic Engine Oil |
| They are mined from the earth. | They are created in a laboratory. |
| Their molecule size changes. | They have uniform molecular size. |
| They are affordable. | They are costly. |
| They have lower viscosity. | They are highly viscous. |
| Works effectively in hot temperatures but requires time to achieve optimal viscosity in colder conditions. | They work effectively in both hot and cold temperatures. |
| They can lead to engine deposits. | It helps lower heat and reduce stress. |
| They do not include pure additives. | They contain only pure additives. |
| Low quality with impurities. | High quality with minimal impurities. |
Regular motor oil is made from crude oil found underground, while synthetic motor oil is created in a lab.
Traditional oil has molecules of varying sizes, which can make its viscosity less consistent across different temperatures. This can affect how well it performs, particularly when temperatures are high.
Synthetic oil has uniform molecules for consistent lubrication in both cold and hot temperatures. It flows smoothly through the engine, offering better protection and durability against heat and stress compared to conventional oil.
Both types contain additives that improve viscosity, act as detergents, and prevent corrosion and foaming. Blended oils, which combine synthetic and conventional types, are also an option.
What is Conventional Engine Oil?
Conventional motor oil, also known as mineral or traditional oil, is vital for lubricating and protecting car engines from wear and tear, ensuring smooth operation. Without motor oil, your car engine would quickly stop working.
Manufacturers make traditional motor oils by refining crude oil. They heat crude oil to separate heavier petroleum products, which form the base of motor oil. Then, they add specific additives to improve its performance.
Conventional motor oil is the basic mineral or petroleum-based option sourced from natural oil extracted from the ground. It’s mixed with additives to protect the engine and is usually the least expensive choice.
Conventional oil has molecules of different sizes because they come from nature. This can cause it to perform inconsistently in various temperatures. Manufacturers add chemicals to improve its performance, but it’s still less reliable than synthetic oil.
What is Synthetic Engine Oil? What Is Synthetic Oil Made From?
Synthetic oil is an artificial lubricant created from chemically modified compounds, usually derived from distilled crude oil.
Synthetic oil is a human-made lubricant crafted from specially formulated chemical compounds. It’s often derived from modified petroleum components, starting with distilled crude oil. Each producer has their own additives and secret methods for making synthetic oil.
Full synthetic motor oil starts with the best quality base oil available, although industry specifics can be unclear. Along with the base oil, synthetic motor oil usually includes additives to boost its performance. While formulations vary between brands, fully synthetic oils consistently provide better protection than conventional oils or synthetic blends.
Which Is Better for Motorcycles: Synthetic Or Conventional Oil?
The choice between synthetic and conventional oil depends on your vehicle’s specifications and what the manufacturer recommends. Some cars work best with synthetic oil, while others are fine with traditional oil.
Both synthetic and conventional oils have similar base oils and additives that reduce friction, maintain viscosity, clean, and regulate temperature. However, synthetic oil is chemically more stable because it’s refined to precise molecules from a purer base.
It reduces friction better and flows consistently at any temperature, making it more reliable than conventional oil. Synthetic oil helps keep engines in good condition, reduces wear and tear, and can lead to lower maintenance costs.
Can You Switch Between Using Conventional and Synthetic Oil?
Switching between synthetic and conventional oil won’t harm your engine. Just remember not to mix them in the engine, as this can affect their performance.
First, check your car’s owner’s manual to see if it recommends conventional or synthetic oil. High-performance vehicles and engines with superchargers or turbochargers typically benefit from synthetic oil. It’s also suitable for most modern engines.
Even if your car doesn’t require synthetic oil, you can switch from conventional oil. Consider your car’s mileage as a factor. If your engine has over 75,000 miles, traditional soil of oil’s slower flow might provide better lubrication for aging engines. However, many older engines still perform well with synthetic oil.
How Can I Switch from Conventional to Synthetic Oil?
Before you decide, weigh the pros and cons of both oil types. Conventional oil offers decent engine lubrication, while synthetic oil provides superior qualities such as better mileage, fuel economy, and engine protection. Keep in mind that synthetic oil is typically more expensive. Check your car’s manual to see if the manufacturer recommends synthetic oil before making the switch.
At Fubex Lubricants, our experts evaluate your vehicle and offer comprehensive services to maintain your engine’s peak performance. You can take advantage of our convenient drive-through oil change services for a hassle-free experience. Visit your nearest location for top-notch synthetic oil changes and all your automotive care needs.
Bottom Line
Synthetic and conventional oils both have their pros and cons, making them suitable for different motorcycles. It’s important to choose engine oil that matches your bike’s model, specifications, and needs. While synthetic oil generally offers more benefits, selecting the right oil is key.
FAQS
Q1: Is there a break-in period required before switching to synthetic oil in a new motorcycle?
Ans: Yes, there is usually a break-in period recommended by motorcycle manufacturers before switching to synthetic oil in a new bike.
Q2: Can switching to synthetic oil affect my motorcycle’s warranty?
Ans: Car manufacturers advise using motor oils meeting specific viscosity grades and API service requirements. The warranty coverage is not affected by whether the oil is petroleum-based or synthetic.
Q3: How often should I change synthetic oil compared to conventional oil?
Ans: Depending on your vehicle, synthetic oils generally last between 7,500 miles and 15,000 miles. For exact recommendations, refer to your owner’s manual.
Q4: Can I mix synthetic oil with conventional oil during the transition period?
Ans: Yes, it’s completely safe to switch between or mix synthetic and conventional oil.
