20W-50 vs 10W-40 in Motorcycle: Which Oil is Best for Your Bike?
When it comes to choosing the right motorcycle oil, there are many options available in the market. Two of the most popular types of motorcycle oil are 20W-50 and 10W-40. But what's the difference between them, and which one is best for your bike?
What Do the Numbers Mean?
Before we dive into the differences between 20W-50 and 10W-40, let's understand what the numbers mean.
The numbers in motorcycle oil refer to its viscosity rating. Viscosity is the measure of an oil's thickness and flowability. Thicker oils are better for cold weather and provide better lubrication, while thinner oils are better for hot weather and improve fuel efficiency.
The numbers are divided into two parts: the "W" rating and the second number.
- The "W" rating refers to the oil's winter performance. A lower "W" rating means the oil is thinner and flows more easily in cold temperatures.
- The second number refers to the oil's viscosity at high temperatures.
20W-50 Motorcycle Oil
20W-50 motorcycle oil is a thicker oil that provides better lubrication in cold weather. It's ideal for motorcycles that are driven in extreme cold weather conditions or for those that are used for heavy hauling or towing.
Pros:
- Better lubrication in cold weather: 20W-50 oil provides better protection for your engine in cold weather, reducing wear and tear on moving parts.
- Better for heavy hauling or towing: Thicker oil provides better lubrication for motorcycles that are used for heavy hauling or towing.
Cons:
- Poor fuel efficiency: Thicker oil can reduce fuel efficiency, which means you'll need to fill up more often.
- Not ideal for high-performance bikes: 20W-50 oil is not designed for high-performance motorcycles and can reduce their power output.
10W-40 Motorcycle Oil
10W-40 motorcycle oil is a thinner oil that provides better fuel efficiency and is ideal for high-performance motorcycles.
Pros:
- Better fuel efficiency: Thinner oil reduces friction and improves fuel efficiency, which means you'll save money on gas.
- Ideal for high-performance bikes: 10W-40 oil is designed for high-performance motorcycles and provides the lubrication they need to run at their best.
Cons:
- Not ideal for cold weather: Thinner oil can struggle to provide adequate lubrication in cold weather, which can lead to engine damage.
- Not suitable for heavy hauling or towing: 10W-40 oil is not designed for heavy hauling or towing and can lead to engine damage if used for these purposes.
Which Oil is Best for Your Bike?
So, which oil is best for your bike? The answer depends on how you ride and the conditions you ride in.
- If you ride in extreme cold weather or use your motorcycle for heavy hauling or towing, 20W-50 oil is the better choice.
- If you ride a high-performance motorcycle or prioritize fuel efficiency, 10W-40 oil is the better choice.
Conclusion
Choosing the right motorcycle oil can make a big difference in the performance and longevity of your bike. By understanding the differences between 20W-50 and 10W-40 oil, you can make an informed decision about which oil is best for your bike. Remember to always check your owner's manual for recommended oil viscosity and to consult with a mechanic if you're unsure.
