Valvoline.com > FAQs > Specialty Oil FAQs

FAQs

Do I have to use a motorcycle oil formulated specifically for motorcycles in my bike? Why can't I use the same oil I use in my car?

The American Petroleum Institute (API) now requires more friction modifiers in oils meeting the current SL/SM standards for gasoline engines. Our motorcycle tests show these oils can cause excessive wear in wet-clutch applications. That's why we designed a motorcycle oil specifically for these applications. Valvoline 4-Stroke Motorcycle Oil is available in SAE 10w40 and SAE 20w50 viscosities.

I ride a Harley-Davidson® and was told only to use their motorcycle oil. Is it OK to use Valvoline motorcycle oil?

It is completely fine to use Valvoline's 4-Stroke Motorcycle Oil as this product meets the requirements for Harley-Davidson.

Do you have any data showing how Valvoline motorcycle oil performs in Harley-Davidson® motorcycles?

We do not have specific data that shows the performance of our oils in Harley- Davidson motorcycles. Valvoline does market a high-quality motorcycle oil specifically designed to provide extra wear and corrosion protection for motorcycles. We do not recommend the use of our ILSAC grade motor oils in motorcycles with wet clutches because of the friction modifiers that are used.

For more information or to submit additional questions, please click here to contact us via email or by phone at 1-800-TEAM-VAL.

All oils are the same.: Different companies use different additives for their oils. That is what makes the oil products different.