QuestionHi William,
I have an '87 Ninja 1000R with 18,000 miles. I've owned this bike since new, and has had regular maintenence, and is stock. I've been using Castrol 20W-50. Can I switch to a synthetic?
Also, the manual calls for 10W-20 fork oil. I can't find this oil. Do you have a suggested alternative, and what weight should I use?
Thanks in advance,
Gary
Tampa, Fl
AnswerHi Gary,
If I'm not mistaken, I answered the engine oil question some time ago (unless there is another Gary with an '87 Ninja 1000R with 18K on it). So I will paraphrase: You do not need to switch to synthetic engine oil. There is no advantage for you since your engine is "mature" in terms of age and mileage. If you start using synthetic now, you may see slipping in the clutch under load or acceleration, increased oil smoke out the exhaust, and oil seepage around gaskets and seals. It's not going to give you any more "power" or make your bike last longer. I'd keep using the Castrol 20-50, it's a good oil and obviously has done well by your Kawasaki. Just keep changing it as specified along with the filter, and keep the engine tuned up. It's got a ton more miles in it.
As for the fork oil, I'd use a 10wt oil in your forks. "Variable weight" fork oil disappeared some time ago. If you want more "damping" of the action in the forks, switch to a 5-weight oil. Modern forks have less "bounce" than bikes from 17 years ago, so if you want to emulate the feel of modern forks, using a bit heavier oil is a cheap way to do it. The expensive way is to have your forks re-valved by a pro, or to graft on some modern front legs from a totaled bike that has had no fork damage (have a mechanic check them out first).
If you've kept your 1000R stock and maintained, it should run for another decade at least before needing major service such as an engine rebuild, new forks (or upgrades), and so forth. By then it will be a true classic!
Ride smart, have fun,
Bill Roberson
