While Harley has its own brand of motorcycle oil, the general consensus is this is not the best motorcycle oil for the job.
In fact, the McNally Institute of mechanics put AMSOIL motorcycle oil 20W-50 full synthetic ahead of Harley’s name-brand oil!
But if you’re curious to know what kind of motorcycle your bike comes home with (and if you’re interested in keeping things purely Harley Davidson), they do make their own H-D 360 20W-50 motorcycle oil—though it is outperformed in testing by many other engine lubricant brands.
What Type of Motorcycle Oil for a Harley Davidson Twin Cam Engine?
Motorcycles run hotter and faster than your average car, and the Harley Davidson Twin Cam engine is no exception to this rule.
As such, there are even more factors to consider when it comes to selecting a motor oil for your bike along with the usual questions you might ask yourself before purchasing a motor oil for your car.
Motorcycle oils have to work in more extreme conditions than a car’s motor in that everything is compressed and condensed to fit on the frame of the bike…
From the sump to the cooling system (which is most usually passing air as the bike moves, except for with newer models of Harleys).
Smaller sumps mean smaller pathways for the oil to travel through, plus the lubricant has to work for a motor that is faster and hotter than average.
Couple this with your local climate conditions and how you intend to drive your bike.
And you can see how thinking you can simply substitute car motor oil for genuine motorcycle oil can lead to problems with your engine.
This includes serious gear problems.
The motor on your Harley Davidson works hard to get you the power you crave on the road.
This comes from a certain amount of friction—but not too much, or the engine will overheat, especially if it’s a hot day.
This is why you need to take great care in how you lubricate your Harley’s motor, especially considering that one sump does all the lubricating for the whole bike…
In short, unless you live in extreme weather conditions, the best bet for your Harley Davidson Twin Cam engine is a fully synthetic 20W-50 motorcycle oil.
This weight and temperature range of oil protects the piston and other moving parts from friction, undue wear, and oxidation…
And unwanted deposits while protecting your bike’s motor and gearbox from overheating.
Why You Should Go With a Synthetic Motorcycle Oil
What’s the best engine oil for a Harley Davidson?
Many people are unclear on the differences between conventional and synthetic oil.
Fortunately, this can be rather simply summed up.
Conventional motor oil (sometimes referred to as mineral oil) is a crude oil that is extracted from the ground and then refined.
Synthetic motor oil takes refined conventional oil and further tinkers with it, adding a wide range of additives to boost lubricity, reduce oxidation, wear, and bubbles or gunk from forming, and agents which reduce friction and wear.
While there’s nothing wrong with conventional motor oil, especially if you are looking for a cheap solution for a motor you don’t intend to use very often, it’s hard for it to compete with synthetic motor oil, which has been engineered by experts to be superior in various conditions.
Synthetic motor oil not only keeps your engine cleaner, but it prevents premature wear of your engine and extends its lifespan, modifies your engine’s friction as needed (some engines need more, others need less), and even leads to better fuel economy.
Suffice it to say, synthetic motor oil is generally considered to be a superior product to conventional.
And this is especially essential for taking good care of your Harley with a best engine oil for a Harley Davidson.
Your bike’s motor works hard and under tougher conditions than a car.
Why chance conventional oil on your motorcycle, which could lead to engine wear, gear failure, poor gas mileage, and more?
If you want some of the perks of a synthetic motorcycle oil without the price point of some of the more engineered versions, try a synthetic blend.
It can prove the best engine oil for a Harley Davidson.
This is simply a blend of conventional and synthetic oils, so you get some of the beneficial additives of synthetic with the lower price associated with conventional.
If you’re like most responsible Harley Davidson owners, you want to know how to get the most out of your engine’s performance while taking good care of your bike at the same time.
So, what’s the best engine oil for a Harley Davidson?
Twin Cam or no, most experts agree the best engine oil for a Harley Davidson is a fully synthetic 20W-50 motorcycle oil from AMSOIL.
AMSOIL’s full synthetic motorcycle oil 20W-50 is best engine oil for a Harley Davidson for a wide range of climates, driving styles, and models of Harley and can add years to your bike every time you use it to change your oil.
Looking to pick up some of the best engine oil for a Harley Davidson your money can buy?
Harley-Davidson, the renowned motorcycle manufacturer, does not directly produce its own motor oil. Instead, they have entered into a licensing agreement with a third-party oil manufacturer.
This arrangement allows the authorized oil manufacturer to produce and distribute motor oil under the Harley-Davidson brand.
The specific company responsible for manufacturing Harley-Davidson motor oil may vary depending on the region or country.
Harley-Davidson has established partnerships with different oil manufacturers worldwide to ensure the availability of high-quality motor oil for their motorcycles.
To obtain accurate and up-to-date information about the authorized motor oil manufacturer in your location, it is recommended to reach out to a Harley-Davidson dealership or visit their official website.
They can provide you with the relevant details regarding the specific oil manufacturer associated with Harley-Davidson in your area.
Harley Davidson engine oil 20w50
Harley-Davidson suggests using 20W50 viscosity grade engine oil for their motorcycles.
This specific oil grade is designed to meet the unique requirements and demands of Harley-Davidson engines.
While Harley-Davidson does not produce their own engine oil, they have authorized and approved several oil manufacturers to develop and manufacture 20W50 engine oil that is compatible with their motorcycles.
These authorized manufacturers adhere to Harley-Davidson’s stringent specifications and quality standards to ensure optimal performance and protection for the engines.
When purchasing 20W50 engine oil for your Harley-Davidson motorcycle, it is crucial to select an oil that is approved and recommended by Harley-Davidson.
This information can typically be found on the oil packaging or the manufacturer’s website.
Following Harley-Davidson’s recommendation of using 20W50 engine oil assists in providing the ideal lubrication and safeguarding for your motorcycle’s engine.
This contributes to its overall performance, efficiency, and longevity. It is always advisable to adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines and suggestions when it comes to selecting and utilizing engine oil for your Harley-Davidson motorcycle.
For a Harley-Davidson motorcycle equipped with a 103 cubic inch engine (103ci), the manufacturer generally recommends using a high-quality motor oil that meets their specifications.
Harley-Davidson’s SYN3 Synthetic Motorcycle Oil is a commonly recommended choice.
The SYN3 Synthetic Motorcycle Oil is a fully synthetic blend designed to provide optimal lubrication and protection for Harley-Davidson engines. It offers excellent wear protection, thermal stability, and resistance to oxidation and sludge formation.
This oil is formulated to meet the specific requirements of Harley-Davidson motorcycles, including those equipped with the 103ci engine.
Using the recommended SYN3 Synthetic Motorcycle Oil for your 103ci Harley-Davidson engine helps ensure proper lubrication, enhanced performance, and longevity.
However, it’s important to note that specific oil recommendations may vary depending on the model year and any modifications made to the motorcycle.
To be certain about the best oil for your particular Harley-Davidson 103ci engine, consult the owner’s manual or seek advice from a Harley-Davidson dealership.
They can provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date information for your specific motorcycle.
For Harley-Davidson Evolution (Evo) engines, selecting the appropriate oil is crucial to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Harley-Davidson recommends using a high-quality, multi-grade engine oil specifically formulated for motorcycles.
The ideal oil for Harley-Davidson Evo engines is typically a 20W50 viscosity grade oil.
This viscosity provides the necessary lubrication and protection for the engine, especially in hotter climates or during extended periods of high engine temperatures.
It is important to choose an oil that meets the necessary specifications and quality standards.
Look for oils that are specifically designed for motorcycles or have been approved by Harley-Davidson for use in their Evo engines.
These oils are formulated to meet the unique demands of Harley-Davidson motorcycles, including heat dissipation, clutch compatibility, and engine cleanliness.
When selecting oil for your Harley-Davidson Evo engine, consider factors such as the climate you ride in, your riding style, and the frequency of oil changes.
It’s also recommended to consult your motorcycle’s owner’s manual or reach out to a Harley-Davidson dealership for specific oil recommendations based on your motorcycle’s model and year.
Regularly changing the oil and following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule is essential for optimal performance and engine longevity.
For the transmission and primary of a Harley-Davidson motorcycle, it is essential to use specific oils designed for these components to ensure proper lubrication and performance.
For the transmission, Harley-Davidson recommends using a high-quality transmission fluid that meets the specific requirements of their motorcycles.
The type of transmission fluid may vary depending on the model and year of the motorcycle.
It is important to consult your motorcycle’s owner’s manual or contact a Harley-Davidson dealership for the exact transmission fluid specification.
When it comes to the primary, Harley-Davidson recommends using a primary chaincase lubricant that is specifically formulated for their motorcycles.
The primary chaincase lubricant helps maintain proper lubrication for the primary chain, clutch, and other internal components.
It is crucial to choose a lubricant that meets Harley-Davidson’s specifications to ensure optimal performance and longevity of the primary system.
Again, refer to your motorcycle’s owner’s manual or seek advice from a Harley-Davidson dealership for the recommended primary chaincase lubricant for your specific model.
Using the recommended transmission fluid and primary chaincase lubricant ensures that your Harley-Davidson motorcycle’s transmission and primary system receive the proper lubrication and protection they need.
Regularly checking and changing these fluids according to the manufacturer’s recommended intervals is essential for maintaining the performance and longevity of these critical components.
When Harley-Davidson motorcycles are assembled at the factory, they are typically filled with Harley-Davidson SYN3 Synthetic Motorcycle Oil.
This oil, specifically developed for Harley-Davidson engines and transmissions, is a fully synthetic blend.
Harley-Davidson SYN3 Synthetic Motorcycle Oil is chosen for its ability to provide optimal lubrication and protection to the engine and transmission components.
It is a multi-viscosity oil, meaning it maintains its effectiveness across a wide range of temperatures.
This ensures that the engine and transmission operate smoothly and efficiently, regardless of weather conditions.
The SYN3 formulation is carefully engineered to meet the rigorous requirements of Harley-Davidson motorcycles.
It offers several benefits, including superior engine protection, improved performance, and extended drain intervals.
By using this oil, Harley-Davidson aims to enhance the longevity and reliability of their motorcycles.
It is worth noting that the specific type of oil used at the factory may vary depending on the model and year of the motorcycle.
To obtain precise information about the oil recommended for your particular Harley-Davidson model, it is advisable to consult the owner’s manual or reach out to a Harley-Davidson dealership.
They can provide you with the exact specifications and guide you on the appropriate oil to use for your motorcycle’s maintenance and performance.
FAQs
Q. What is the best oil to use in a Harley-Davidson?
A. The best oil to use in a Harley-Davidson motorcycle is typically the one recommended by the manufacturer. Harley-Davidson offers their own line of oils, such as the SYN3 Synthetic Motorcycle Oil, which is specifically formulated for their engines. These oils are designed to meet the unique requirements and provide optimal lubrication and protection for Harley-Davidson motorcycles. It is advisable to consult the owner's manual or contact a Harley-Davidson dealership to determine the specific oil recommendation for your motorcycle model.
Q. Is synthetic oil better for Harley-Davidson?
A. Synthetic oil can offer certain advantages for Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Synthetic oils are formulated to provide enhanced performance and protection, especially under extreme operating conditions. They generally have better resistance to heat breakdown, offer improved lubrication at high temperatures, and have a more consistent viscosity across a wide range of temperatures. Many Harley-Davidson riders choose to use synthetic oils due to these benefits. However, it is important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations and ensure that the synthetic oil meets the specifications required for your specific Harley-Davidson model.
Q. What oil goes in Harley engine?
A. Harley-Davidson recommends using a high-quality motor oil specifically formulated for motorcycles. The specific oil grade may vary depending on the model and year of your Harley-Davidson motorcycle. Commonly, Harley-Davidson engines are filled with 20W50 viscosity grade oil. It is crucial to choose an oil that meets Harley-Davidson's specifications and requirements for optimal engine performance and protection. Checking the owner's manual or contacting a Harley-Davidson dealership will provide you with the accurate oil recommendation for your motorcycle's engine.
Q. Can you use synthetic oil in a Harley?
A. Yes, synthetic oil can be used in a Harley-Davidson motorcycle. Many riders opt for synthetic oils due to their superior performance and protection characteristics. Synthetic oils provide better lubrication at high temperatures, offer improved engine cleanliness, and can potentially extend oil change intervals. However, it is important to ensure that the synthetic oil used meets the manufacturer's specifications for your particular Harley-Davidson model. Refer to the owner's manual or consult a Harley-Davidson dealership to confirm compatibility and to choose the appropriate synthetic oil for your motorcycle.
