The Great Oil Debate

General discussion of the BMW R 1200/1250RT
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CapnJohn
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The Great Oil Debate

Post by CapnJohn »

What oil does anyone use when doing an oil change?
The "official" Motorrad Advantec Ultimate 5W-40?
I realize being a wet clutch bike, the correct oil is important! Can ANY? oil be used as long as it's JASO MA/MA2 compliant?
I've known some that have used the Shell oil pictured & it states it does meet the performance requirements of JASO MA/MA2,
but it is 25% the price of BMW oil - does that make it cheap? It's available in the US, but other places? don't know!
Thoughts anyone?
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David.
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Re: The Great Oil Debate

Post by David. »

David. wrote:In the US, folks seem to use Shell Rotella T6 as an alternative to the BMW stuff, https://advrider.com/f/threads/shell-rotella-t6-diesel-5w40.1075765/page-3

"Shell Rotella T6 Full Synthetic Oil SAE 5W-40 meets API SM, which supersedes API SL, as well as meeting the requirements of JASO MA and MA2."
(See reply #46 in the Adventure Rider thread link).
Last edited by David. on Tue Mar 15, 2022 12:56 am, edited 1 time in total.
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emlevy
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Re: The Great Oil Debate

Post by emlevy »

Why is this a debate? Use what you like. If you want to be anal, follow the manufacturer’s recommendation and avoid the second-guessing.
2015 R1200RT | 2012 R1200R Classic
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Doctor T
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Re: The Great Oil Debate

Post by Doctor T »

I've used Smith and Allen oils for years. Apparently, you can find their oils rebranded for a much higher price on the shelves. The choice is yours. As long as it covers the standards set by BMW, most oils will suit.
Trust me am a retired Doctor and lecturer at Oxford University of Structural and Mechanical engineering.
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David.
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Re: The Great Oil Debate

Post by David. »

Doctor T wrote:I've used Smith and Allan oils for years.
Smith & Allan Limitless Ultra 5w-40 - Fully Synthetic Motorcycle Oil | Buy oil, lubricants, greases and more from Smith and Allan
Doctor T wrote:Apparently, you can find their oils rebranded for a much higher price on the shelves.
Under which labelled brand?
Last edited by David. on Thu Mar 17, 2022 4:55 pm, edited 1 time in total.
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Doctor T
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Re: The Great Oil Debate

Post by Doctor T »

I've been informed it is rebranded as KIA and am told, Nissan. They were about 6 on the list. May indie shops use it as well. Found the info on an Oil forum around 5 years ago
Trust me am a retired Doctor and lecturer at Oxford University of Structural and Mechanical engineering.
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