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The proper type of synthetic oil will not make the clutch slip.
I use Rotella T6 synthetic regularly in numerous cycles I own.
I don't think Rotella (regular or synthetic) is going to help a slipping clutch though. I agree with FPO about the possible causes, but will add to the list - improper adjustment.
The differences between auto, diesel, and cycle oil are numerous. Auto oils in grades 30 and below have Friction Modifiers that can build-up on clutch plates and cause slipping. Grades 40 and above do not have modifiers, but they lack some of the additives we want. Fairly recently, levels of ZDDP (Zinc and Phosphorus) in auto oils have been reduced to prolong the life of the catalyst. These lower levels can cause galling of cams and lifters on non-roller cam engines. Basically, you can use 10W-40 auto oil in you cycle, but it's not a great idea. Auto oils marked "Racing" or "not for street use" generally have better levels of ZDDP.
Diesel oils have better (safe) levels of ZDDP, and generally are considered "heavy duty" compared to auto oils. One drawback is a heavy detergent package, but I've not confirmed any problems because of it. I've run Rotella T6 synthetic for years and feel it's a good choice for an economical synthetic alternative to a cycle specific oil.
Cycle oils are your best choice, especially top-quality Group IV Ester-based synthetics as offered by Motul, Repsol, etc. They have the levels of ZDDP that you want and the best, most advanced, type of base stock.
I'm currently running Castrol synthetic 10W-40 4T Racing in my SV650, which is very similar to Mobil1 4T. Both are more than adequate for all but the most extreme conditions like racing, in which case I'd run a Motul Double Ester synthetic.
Jay
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