I'm running Mobil One V-twin 20W50, but per the owner's manual it looks like I should be using a thinner oil during cold weather.

What weight oil does everyone else run in the Winter (if you ride, that is)?

 

I run Syn 3 for all fluids. Here in Wisconsin that does'nt bother it a bit. Many other fellow riders as I ride all though winter with no problem.

 

For me, a lighter oil in the primary seemed to really help with better and smoother clutch engagement. I ended up using ATF in the primary all year 'round. As long as you plan on warming up the engine (25 mile ride minimum), 20W-50 would be fine.

 

Any 20-50 synthetic should be fine. Synthetic oils do not thicken up in low temps like petrolrum oils do. Also flows more quickly to bearings and critical engine parts on cold start up. Brand is strictly a matter of preference. I've used Amsoil and Syn3 with no noticeable difference between them. Amsoil is generally considered the best, but the whole issue of which brand oil to use is over hyped and rife with misinformation.

 

Amsoil 20W-50 all year round but my temps dont get below 30 too often. In the 20's occasionally.

Now if you live in Minneapolis who knows, but then again who rides in those kind subzero of temps???

 

I started running Mobil 1 15W-50 year round. Good startup flow in winter with good protection in summer heat.
I ride down to about 25 degrees, below that & I'm in the truck...

 

Lost1 is 15W50 a full synthetic? I'm running Mobil 1 Vtwin 20W50, but it also has more zinc than most oils, which is good for bikes. Just wonder how the 15W50 compares to the Vtwin oil.

 

Yep, it is full synthetic and has added anti-wear agents like M1 V-Twin.
From Mobil's website:
Mobil 1 15W-50 exceeds warranty requirements for gasoline engines where an API certified oil is specified. It meets: [*] API SM/SL
[*] Requirements for Diesel Powered Vehicles where an API CF or API CD is recommended
[*] Provides extra anti-wear additive for older vehicles
[/ul] Mobil 1 15W-50 is formulated with SuperSyn, an extra-high viscosity synthetic fluid, plus extra anti-wear additive to provide extra protection for severe service applications such as towing, hauling and racing. Mobil 1 15W-50 is recommended for high performance vehicles including turbocharged and supercharged engines where a thicker oil film is desired. Mobil 1 15W-50 is also recommended for older valve train designs that may benefit from a higher level of anti-wear normally not required for newer generation vehicles.Mobil 1 15W-50 will also provide better anti-wear protection for higher valve spring tensions in certain racing engines.

Chemically I believe it's almost identical to the V-Twin oil, with the V-Twin having slightly more calcium. It meets H-D's "specs" as it is rated CD/CF for diesel engines, which is a suitable API classification per the owner's manual.
I get the 15W-50 for $20 for a 5 qt. jug at Wal-Mart ($4/qt.) vs. approx. $9/qt. for the V-Twin at AutoZone.

Both are great oils and will take good care of your engine...

 

try search section good info should help.

 

Thanks, Lost1, sounds pretty good and comparable to the Vtwin oil. Yours is a lot cheaper, too.