just curious about oil changes

[DrDan]

synthetic or natural?

Anyone vary from manufacturer recommended intervals? If so - why.

btw - asking this relative to a 2008 Sportster - it that makes any difference.

[JustABozoOnThisBus]

1. It varies by manufacturer and engine type

My BMW (2007 hex-head) is supposed to stay on dinosaur-oil until at least 10,000 miles, then synthetic is an option.

The reason as I understand it: Synthetic lubricates too well, so the engine won't completely break in, rings-to-cylinder, bearings, all those surfaces that need to mate the machining marks. So I'm still on dino oil for a while, only 8000 on the bike.

My other BMW (1973 air-head) is supposed to stay on dinosaur-oil forever, IF I care about a little seepage, as the seals weren't designed for synthetics. So far, I'm sticking to that, but the synthetic oil would lubricate just fine.

I use Harley-brand oil for the older bike, because it's supposed to be composed of the right stuff for old-style cams-lifters-pushrods. Some of the other brands may be mixed exclusively for the overhead-cams using lifters or rocker arms with rollers.

Bottom line, just go with Harley Davidson's recommendations. It's probably not worth looking for a cheaper alternative.

Is that bike the 1200 or the 883 motor?

[DrDan]

2. thanks for info - it's an 883

called for first service - and they gave me both options. If they recommended one or the other - it would be easier.

But the synthetic lets me skip a couple of changes - so might be worth the few extra bucks.

[JustABozoOnThisBus]

3. For the first service, I'd go with dinosaur oil

The engine is still scraping the tool marks off the cylinders. I'd let it break in some more with the old oil. The first few oil changes, those scrapings are showing up as dirt in the oil, so don't try to skip early oil changes.

New bike? We need photos.

:hi:

[DrDan]

4. that sounds wise - I think I will go that way

yes - I do have a couple of pics. Will post them.

Thanks for the advice.