Delvac 1 motorcycle application questions

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A bit of background:

I started using Delvac 1 in my Yamaha YZF-R1 last year for about 3 oil changes before the bike was totaled (I was rear ended, not pretty). I've now started using it in a new (to me), properly broken in 2002 YZF-R1.

Both last year and this I've experienced a reduction in normal operating temperatures, smoother running, and much improved gearbox actuation after switching from Golden Spectro 10w-40 to Delvac 1 5w-40.

Last year I was experiencing some oil usage after the first application of Delvac (that I'd not seen before) but it COULD have been attributed to a faulty crankcase breather valve.

My riding style is extremely aggressive. I work the motor and the gearbox very hard. Another poster here said most literbike engines are fully utilized only 1% of the time, but I can assure you that my motors get worked harder than that.

I change oil every 1500 miles, which usually amounts to between 3 and 5 riding days. I always change the filter w/ the oil, and I use OE Yamaha/Denso filters.

Questions:

1.) I'm seeing some oil "growth" in the sight glass w/ Delvac 1. After adding the proper amount of Delvac 1, running the engine to operating temp, going through the gears, and shutting down, oil level is perfect (after settling). However after riding the bike hard for 4 hours, I look at the sight glass and the oil level is too high, taking up all of the sight glass.

In all cases levels are checked on flat ground w/ bike perfectly vertical.

What would cause this?

2.) I've seen some talk on this forum about the significant levels of shear that oil is subjected to by motorcycle engines, and more specifically, motorcycle transmissions.

Is Delvac 1 one of the best choices for high-shear m/c duty?

If not, what oil would be the absolute best choice for ultra-hard duty in a motorcycle application? Please bear in mind that I would likely sacrifice some protective performance if the alternative would be a drop in engine output.

Essentially, I'm very happy with the "feel" of the Delvac, but I'd like some feedback RE the absolute best oil to help me protect the engine as I flog the living heck out if it.

Your thoughts are appreciated!
 
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You might have a faulty injecter that is leaking fuel or a thermostat that it stuck open. My TL1000S is now having the same problems with the growing oil level.

If the D1 is not making the clutch slip or anything it should be a very good choice for your R1.
 
Thanks for the welcome!

The growth does not occur w/ amsoil 10-40 or yamalube conventional oil, so I can't see how an injector would be the issue.

[ May 14, 2004, 10:35 AM: Message edited by: gb506 ]
 
Other than the possibility of heat/expansion causing the oil site gauge to indicate higher level, there is not much of an explanation. Delvac 1 is extremely shear stable and almost impossible to get foaming. And yes, an excellent choice for your engine.
George Morrison, STLE CLS (Ducati/Cagiva)
Columbus, Ohio
 
George,

How do you feel about using Mobil D1 in an off road shared sump motorcycle used in off road racing applications? Should it hold up well or will it shear down pretty quickly? Do you think it will still be plenty good after 15 operating hours?
 
quote:

Originally posted by gb506:



Questions:

1.) I'm seeing some oil "growth" in the sight glass w/ Delvac 1. After adding the proper amount of Delvac 1, running the engine to operating temp, going through the gears, and shutting down, oil level is perfect (after settling). However after riding the bike hard for 4 hours, I look at the sight glass and the oil level is too high, taking up all of the sight glass.


Your thoughts are appreciated!


Think thermal expansion all the while not writing off the possibility it's fuel in the oil .

I just got a report back of a ZX-12R thats driven hard and I mean hard and put up dry but it still had 8.0 fuel . It knocked a 14 cSt synlube down to a 7 cSt
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and the owner had no idea anything was wrong .It was still shifting well .........ohhhh that groovy Motul
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EDIT:

Only for those that have ever thought a MC engine with Nikasil bores will show less FE .....your wrong if it has a bunch of fuel in it
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[ May 29, 2004, 11:44 AM: Message edited by: Motorbike ]
 
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