Choosing the Right Engine Oil for Your Royal Enfield 35 Motorcycle: A Guide
When it comes to maintaining your Royal Enfield 35 motorcycle, many riders debate the best engine oil to use. A common query that arises is whether you can use 20W50 grade engine oil for your bike. In this article, we will cover the essentials of choosing the right type of oil and provide guidance based on the bike's specific requirements.
Understanding Engine Oil Grades
Engine oil grades are typically denoted with a combination of numbers and letters. The most common format is 'XXWXX', where 'XXW' refers to the viscosity of the oil at low temperatures, and 'XX' denotes its viscosity at high temperatures. For instance, 20W50 oil has a viscosity of 20 at low temperatures and 50 at high temperatures.
Why 20W50 is Suitable for Some Bikes
20W50 grade engine oil is particularly suitable for older models with air-cooled engines, especially in warmer climates. This oil grade offers excellent protection and performance at higher temperatures, thanks to its ability to maintain thin film properties even when temperatures soar. However, it is crucial to always check your motorcycle's owner manual and manufacturer's recommendations for optimal engine longevity and performance.
Royal Enfield Specifics
For newer Royal Enfield models with UCE engines, the recommended oil grade is typically 15W50. This is because the new engines are designed with modern specifications that require a different type of oil for optimal performance. However, if you are riding an older Royal Enfield model, 20W50 can be a viable option.
The suitability of 20W50 oil depends largely on your local weather conditions. If you live in a region like Tamil Nadu, with moderate winters around 22°C and hot summers reaching up to 37°C, 20W40 or 20W50 could be suitable. In colder regions, such as Kashmir or Shimla, a thinner oil like 0W20 might be more appropriate to prevent the clutch from slippage.
Clutch Considerations and Other Factors
Unlike some modern motorcycles, Royal Enfields have a wet clutch system. This means that the oil also serves a dual purpose of lubricating the clutch. As a result, some engine oils may have a tendency to create clutch slippage, which can be uncomfortable but won't cause damage to the engine. It is advisable to choose an oil that is specifically designed for wet clutches to avoid any issues.
General Guidelines for Selecting Engine Oil
One approach to determining the best oil grade is to look at the recommended grade of oil by the manufacturer. For example:
If the manufacturer recommends 10W40, use only 10W40. If the first mention of the oil's weight is 10W50, consider 10W30, 10W40, and 10W50. If the oil grade is 20W40, you can use 20W30 or 20W50.For Japanese and other brand motorcycles (such as BMW, Moto Guzzi, Triumph, KTM), it is often recommended to use a purpose-made motorcycle oil from reputable brands like Castrol, Motul, or Elf. These oils often come with a CC or CD designation on the bottle, which indicates that they are suitable for use in motorcycles with wet clutches.
Case Study: Harley-Davidson
As a seasoned Harley rider, I often use 20W50 engine oil in my bike. However, it is always advisable to check your manufacturer's guidelines and consult the owner's manual to ensure you are using the best oil for your specific bike.
In conclusion, while 20W50 engine oil can be suitable for Royal Enfield 35 motorcycles, particularly in warmer regions, it is crucial to consider local weather conditions and consult the owner's manual. Always err on the side of caution and choose an oil grade that is recommended by the manufacturer to ensure the best performance and longevity of your bike's engine.