KLR650 oil type

[KRS]

Picking up a used Kawasaki KLR650 tomorrow. Manual calls for 10w-50.<br /><br />There appears to be as much conjecture, opinion, and downright anger with motorcycle enthusiasts as there are with boaters when it comes to oil.<br /><br />Anyone own a dual-sport bike, what do you use?<br /><br />Anyone been to copper canyon, Mexico.... or any other fun rides?

 

[mrloring]

Re: KLR650 oil type

No I don't own one, but have researched them wanting to purchase. If the brakelines on the KLR are original change them to braided stainless. That is the biggest complaint I have seen in regards to the KLR. Good luck and post a pic when you get it. Enjoy the driving range as it has the largest gas tank of all the dualsports.

 

[Triton II]

Re: KLR650 oil type

I work for Kawasaki Australia and we recommend using the oil specified in the manual. KLRs are not that hard on oil being liquid cooled and in a "soft" state of tune. Here in Sydney we stick with the standard Kawachem 10W-40, so you must be in a hotter location - might be worth trying a synth 15W-50 such as Motul 300V. The trouble with oils in motorcycles in the unit construction nature of most - i.e the gearbox and the engine share the same oil. So motorcycle specific oils are blended to handle the extra strain of the gearbox - they have more shear stabilisers than car oils.

 

[KRS]

Re: KLR650 oil type

Thank you for the info.... I hadn't considered the extra demands on the oil due to the gearbox, etc.<br /><br />Ambient temperatures in the summer will reach 115 degrees Farenheit (don't know what that is in celsius).<br /><br />Will check with bike shop tomorrow.<br /><br />Triton... do you have a KLR or what do you ride, let's see some pics.

 

[LubeDude]

Re: KLR650 oil type

Mobil1s mortorcycle oil is a great product, easy to find and even though its a 10W-40,you will find that it is up to the task in your climate.<br /><br />Mobil 1 MX4T contains Mobil's proven fully synthetic technology with a high performance additive system to provide superb engine and transmission protection under the most grueling riding conditions. Recommended for 4-cycle motorcycles. 1 Quart per bottle.<br /><br />Tested to provide optimum acceleration and horsepower for high-speed, high-revving motorcycles <br />Excellent protection at peak engine RPM and power conditions <br />Formulated to offer exceptional engine and transmission protection to help extend the life of your motorcycle <br />Excellent flow characteristics under extreme hot and cold operating conditions and during periods of intermittent use.<br /><br /><br />Everyday Price: $9.49

 

[brother chris]

Re: KLR650 oil type

Here is my ride: 2003 KLR 650, last year. <br />With my bike, I have to get the head gasket checked out. I have to add at least 200-300ml every 3-4 days.<br />Not sure what the problem is, but sounds like a head gasket to me. <br />Next problem, I never had the money to take it in for the 12,000km tune-up, so my warranty is invalid, because I am already at 18,000km now. <br />Oh well, it still runs like a charm. <br /><br /> http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid185/p330a938f8fb464e74e4b2d5e6feb62f1/f275643f.jpg <br /><br />KLR's are fun, you can go anywhere....and I mean anywhere.

 

[KRS]

Re: KLR650 oil type

Well, here she is...<br />.<br />

 

[brother chris]

Re: KLR650 oil type

Nice! What year is that one?

 

[Triton II]

Re: KLR650 oil type

G'day azfyrfyter,<br /><br />here's my bike... a 2003 Z1000 roadie. Don't have a dirt squirt at the moment... sniff!<br /><br />

 

[KRS]

Re: KLR650 oil type

Nice bikes.<br /><br />Mine is a 2000 with plenty of sun fade (arizona)