Synthetic Oil in my '81 cycle

[extragoode]

Ok, here is the quote from the manual and you guys tell me what it means.

"Engine Oil Recommendation
USE HONDA 4-STROKE OIL OR AN EQUIVALENT.
Use only high detergent, premium quality motor oil certified to meet or exceed US automobile manufacturers' requirements for Service Classification SE.
Motor oils intended for Service SE will show this designation on the container.
The use of special oil additives is unnecessary and will only increase operating expenses.

CAUTION: Engine oil is a major factor affecting the performance and service life of the engine. Non-detergent, vegetable, or castor based racing oils, are not recommended."

Then it has a chart showing SAE 10W-30 is good for when the average temperature in my riding area is between -5F and 90F and SAE 10W-40 is good for -5F and up.

So I get the detergent thing, but what is 4-stroke oil or an equivalent? Cars are 4-stroke. What should I put in this thing for the best mileage without spending $50 on oil? The 0W-30 I got from Wal-Mart is about $30/5 quarts, so using that would cost me about $15.

[dcb]

stay away from "efficiency" or friction modifiers. Look at the bottle for an sf or an sg.

From:
Honda Nighthawk Specs

Recommended Oil Honda 4-stroke oil or equivalent.
API SF or SG, SAE 10W-40

5 � F to 110 � F SAE 10W-40



5 � F to 90 � F SAE 10W-30

[dann_04]

Typically if it says 4-stroke it means motorcycle/powersports oil. Honda 4-stroke is used for honda motorcycles and powersports and is made for use with wet-clutches. If it just says motor oil it's typically for a car. Amsoil synthetic was only about 8 bucks a quart for me, how much oil does your bike take? You can try normal oil, but i have a feeling you will feel your clutch start to slip.