Direct from Exxon Mobil:

"Mobil 1 V-Twin 20W-50 does not meet the requirements of JASO MA/MA2 and is not intended for these applications. Our JASO MA/MA2 approved fluid is Mobil 1 Racing 4T 10W-40."

"I forgot to mention that we have no listing of this motorcycle. Please refer to your owner’s manual or contact the OEM directly to inquire about lubrication requirements."

"At one time, this product did have JASO MA approval.

Due to the increasing use of catalytic converters, the phosphorus content requirement to meet this specification was reduced. At this time, with our product being a very popular option among motorcycle enthusiasts, it was decided to leave the phosphorus content at its original level, therefore disqualifying it from JASO approvals.

We still stand behind the product for outstanding protection in four-cycle, V-Twin type engines – particularly those that are air-cooled and tend to run hotter than other types of engines. This product does indeed have the proper frictional characteristics necessary for wet-clutch common engine/transmission systems, we just wouldn’t recommend it if JASO MA/MA2 is an OEM requirement as this could lead to damage of catalytic converters and potentially void warranties."

 

Vortec, I am so glad you mentioned this - thanks! I didn't know much about the MA oil ratings and now I do.

On my wet clutch/shared engine & gearbox oil bike (Harley XG750A) it definitely shifts differently since I changed to Mobil 1 V-Twin 20W-50 a few months ago. I think we may have talked about this on another forum recently.

It will be interesting to see if Harley keeps gearbox/clutch oil separate from engine oil in any newer engines.

 

Interesting: I swapped out the fresh Mobil 1 V-Twin 20W-50 for Valvoline 4-stroke motorcycle (blue bottle) 20W-50. The Valvoline is "MA" rated, the Mobil 1 V-Twin is now not.

The engine sounds about the same, but shifting is worlds better. The clunk is mostly gone. Thanks Vortec.

 

Thank you for sharing your experience with the rest of us. Valvoline is holding up well in mine - Clutch action is much better and shifting is still very good.