Engine break in, thin or thick oil? By prodigit (Read 824 times)

[prodigit]

When breaking in the engine, most people recommend regular (non-synthetic) oil, as it has to be changed in 50-100 miles anyway, and synthetic oil costs more.

I understand that part.

But what kind of oil should I get; should I get lighter than regular oil, or heavier?

Some mechanics say SAE30, the usermanual says SAE10W40.
It's made in mainland China. I live in Florida, with boiling hot sun all day, so I will go with the SAE10W40 under regular driving, but for the engine break in, is it perhaps advised to go with 30 or should I go with 40?

(also, the bike is watercooled, so it might not get as hot as an aircooled one).

And why should I get a lighter or heavier oil; what's the reason for selecting it?

[cruiser]

You should use the manufacturer recommended oil for break in. Higher viscosity can be used after break in if you are operating in high temps and at high speeds for extended periods. Lower viscosity is OK for lower temps or lighter duty use. I use a 5W-40 synthetic which pretty well covers all New England situations.